THOUSANDS of revellers joined in with the second annual Village Beach Festival Over 100 different artists took to the various stages to perform for the crowds in the free family event.

Headliners Dreadzone brought a fabulous mix of music from reggae to rock, which had the crowds on their feet dancing.

The Busking Beach Hut hosted by the Thurrock Art Collective had various bands and musicians showcasing the range of different talent from Thurrock.

The event took place at Grays Riverside Beach Park on Friday and Saturday last week.

The event was organised by Metal, an arts organisation.

Colette Bailey, Metal’s Artistic Director, said the Village Beach Festival was very well attended throughout the weekend.

She added: “There were 2,300 Thurrock school pupils on Friday July 16 and 4,000 festival goers on Saturday July 17 enjoyed Village Beach festival.

“Grays Beach Riverside Park was teeming with artists and performers from across the borough and further afield put on shows as diverse as opera, Shakespeare, stunning acrobatics, spo - ken word, storytelling, alongside acoustic, world and rock music.

“It was a fantastic celebration of a diverse and creative community who were out in force to enjoy the event.”

Cathy Kent, mayor of Thurrock, said she thoroughly enjoyed the event.

She added: “The sun was shining and Thurrock families en - joyed an amazing day out.

“We even had the chance to experience music, art and food from different cultures bringing our own communities together with a festival atmosphere.”

Chris Baker, Ukip councillor for Belhus said: “I was blown away.

“Especially by the last two acts, the Turbans and Dreadzone.

"What a fantastic day."