THE mayor of Castle Point enjoyed an afternoon officially opening a summer barbecue.

Brian Wood and his wife, Anne, went to the event at Oakdale Nursing Home, Kiln Road, Benfleet, on Saturday.

Anne said: “We were both warmly welcomed by Mel the manager and met all the hard working staff.

“The barbecue was very well supported by the residents families also friends and families of staff too.

“The owner of the home Menon gave a small gift of his appreciation to the team members for their hard work again this year.

“Brian and I enjoyed chatting to residents and their families and it was very clear to see how happy everyone was.

“Thank you Mel and your team for a fabulous afternoon - we told you the rain would stay away.”

There was also entertainment in the form of a mobile farm.