PEOPLE flocked to Rayleigh for a chance to climb the historic church tower and glimpse the views over the Essex countryside.

More than 450 people attended the twice yearly open event on Bank Holiday Monday at Holy Trinity Church in Hockley Road.

The views from the top of the 70ft tower are amazing and visitors who climb the steps are rewarded with views as far as the city scape of London and over the Thames Estuary into Kent.

Ann Jolly, church member, said: “It was very well attended. People enjoy coming along and climbing the steps of the tower.

“We usually do the event twice a year to help raise money for the church.

“The views at the top are amazing. Even though it wasn’t the brightest day people could see as far as Canary Wharf and over to Kent.”

Rayleigh's historic tower, which dates from 1380, is in need of urgent restoration.

Wind and rain have eroded the Kentish rag stone over the years and repairs to the stonework are needed.

Funds from the day will go to the Friends of Holy Trinity Rayleigh who will put the money towards the restoration work.