A SALVATION Army leader recalled the early days of the movement now celebrating 110 years of transforming lives in Southend.

Southend Southchurch Salvation Army is set to mark the milestone with a special concert by the Chelmsford Salvation Army choir this weekend.

Meanwhile, church leader of Southend Southchurch Salvation Army, Major Yvonne Andrews, told how the first meetings in Southchurch were conducted in January 1907.

She said: “Salvation Army’s War Cry magazine reported that the church hall filled within three minutes.

“One ‘drunk’, who had spent 25 years in prison, followed the brass band and as a result of hearing the gospel message his whole life was transformed.”

Since those early days social action has been central to The Salvation Army’s Christian faith.

In 1885 Salvationists successfully campaigned for the age of consent to be raised from 13 to 16 - and in 1890 the church and charity opened the UK’s first labour exchange.

Ms Andrews said: “Southend was one of the most vibrant centres for The Salvation Army.

“The Citadel in the centre of town saw the potential for another church and guaranteed finances and personnel to get the work started.

“Now today the Salvation Army is dedicated to working and caring for this community, but without their generosity, we wouldn’t be here today.”

The celebration concert on Saturday will be held in the Southchurch Road church , Southend from 3pm. All are welcome to come along.

Ms Andrews added: “It will be a wonderful opportunity for our church to thank God for the last 110 years, and say thank you to the local community.”

In addition to church services every Sunday, The Salvation Army runs ‘Keep Fit Club’, ‘Good Companions Club’ for older people, a friendship group, parent and toddlers, a kids club and provides emergency food for people in need.

Celebrations will continue during the church service on Sunday at 11am with special guests General Shaw Clifton, former international leader of The Salvation Army, and Commissioner Birgitte Brekke-Clifton, current International Secretary for Europe.

For more information visit salvationarmy.org.uk/southend-southchurch