THE art scene in Thurrock has hailed the news of the free Village Beach festival – and hopes it will put Grays firmly on the arts map.

Community groups spoke of how the one-day event would also bring out borough artists “working in the shadows”.

Vic Gray, 68, from the Thurrock Court Players and Thurrock Arts Council, who runs Thurrock Drama Festival, said: “It’s very exciting, and great news for Thurrock and great news for local artists’ groups because it gives us more exposure.

“I have a feeling that what happens to community groups is that they just kind of do their own thing and are not really aware of the opportunities out there.

“There are a lot of artists’ groups in Thurrock that are working quite independently and this will draw them, and the people of Thurrock, together.”

Sylvie Maney, 56, secretary of the Thurrock Arts Society, said: “We’re really looking forward to it and it will be fun, as well as a bit of an experiment!

We’re more of a traditional arts group but we’ve had loads of interest from members.

“It’s a really good thing for Thurrock to have arts coming up to the forefront because I think it’s been on the backburner for far too many years.

“Too many people think there aren’t any artists in Thurrock but there’s always been an undercurrent – we just don’t shout about it.”

Community groups will be involved too – from Acme Studios artists at the High House Production Park, to the Backstage Centre, Thames Delta open mic, the Marquetry Society, Thurrock Operatic Society and Thurrock Court Players.

Students will also be getting in on the action and getting involved. From South Essex College to primary and secondary schools, they will be performing and helping with production.