A special afternoon was organised for ex-servicemen from Canvey yesterday.

Around 100 war veterans attended the afternoon in which they were treated to tea and sandwiches before a special viewing of director Christopher Nolan’s latest film, Dunkirk.

The afternoon took place at Starr Snooker before they headed to Movie Starr to watch the new war epic.

The day was organised by councillor Peter May, who wanted to give something back to the ex-servicemen.

Mr May said: “What a fantastic event.

“It’s an absolute honour and what’s so emotional is how grateful they all are.

“I’ve had people coming up to me saying they can’t believe we’re putting this on for us – it’s lovely.

“As I said the other day, this sort of thing happens up and down the country, so why couldn’t we do it here where we have so many ex-servicemen to honour.”

The war veterans were treated to tea and sandwiches whilst chatting to one another about their war experiences.

Norah Turnbull, a member of the Canvey British Legion women’s section said: “I think it’s absolutely brilliant.

“I was told this morning about a 97 year old man who lives on the island who was invited to the premier in London where he met Prince Harry.

“I’m definitely looking forward to the film.”

Eric Coombes, 84, who fought in Korea, also enjoyed the event.

He said: “It’s a lovely event to organise.

“We also got invited to go back to Korea earlier this year which was fantastic.”

Councillor Ray Howard was also in attendance and thanked the Parkin family for their efforts to put on the event.

Mr Howard said: “I pay full credit to James for the initiative for putting this event on. It’s a credit to him and his family.

“It certainly brings back old memories as a former war baby.

“As the years go on there’s less and less of these veterans around and this event has brought a lot of people together and I hope they thoroughly enjoy the film.”

James Parkin, 38, owner of Moviestarr, hosted the event and was proud to honour the ex-servicemen.

Mr Parkin said: “I’m very proud with the turnout.

“I didn’t expect to get this many people and I’m just overwhelmed really.

“It’s the least I could do to offer my hospitality given that they’ve risked their lives and offered their bravery to protect our country.

“I’m really proud that I’ve made a lot of them happy today.”

Rebecca Harries MP also attended and paid tribute to the event.

Mrs Harris said: “What a lovely event.

“It’s a wonderful way to honour these people and getting everyone together and hearing their stories is amazing.”