THE Boys’ Brigade marked its 125th anniversary as hundreds of people joined together for a balloon release on Southend seafront.

Members gathered at the top of the High Street for a celebration service before making their way down to Pier Hill to release 125 balloons.

About 300 members of the Boys’ Brigade marked the occasion. They finished the day off with a visit to Adventure Island.

Tony Gowers, president of the Boys’ Brigade in south east Essex, said: “It was lovely to see so many people come and support us.

“With friends and family, there were more like 400 people for the celebration. Each of the 13 companies in Southend was represented on the day.”