FUNDRAISING for a war memorial continues after organisers criticised the lack of council support.

Castle Point Council agreed to spend £8,000 restoring war memorials in Hadleigh and Benfleet, but did not agree to fund work to the memorial in Canvey.

The Canvey memorial, at the Paddocks, is being rebuilt after falling into disrepair. After raising £18,000, organisers are making a final push to reach their £30,000 target.

Sandra Durant, vice-chairman of Canvey Wall Memorial Hall, said: “It’s a shame Castle Point Council can give Benfleet and Hadleigh war memorials £8,000, but, as usual, the council seems to have left Canvey in the dark.

“We’ve been speaking to the council since last year, so it knew when it drew up the budget.”

In April the Wall Memorial Hall’s committee agreed to act as the fundraisers, with Ray Howard, councillor for Canvey, underwriting the project. The council is providing technical expertise and obtaining necessary permission, free of charge.

Mr Howard said: “I’m mindful the council has provided professional advice from its legal section and from the surveyors’ point of view.”

Preparations are well under way for the latest fundraiser, on Saturday, with a variety show at the War Memorial Hall.

Mrs Durant said: “We have some wonderful acts performing, most donating their time free of charge for the project, from the comedy antics of Canvey’s Gary Kempsey to the angelic operatic voice of Nina Marie.

“Cast ‘n’ Crew, Colin Wyatt and a barbershop choir are also in the line-up with our finale being a good old-fashioned singalong.

“We are hoping the Canvey spirit will be revived and the islanders support this worthy cause.”

The show starts at 7.30pm.

Tickets are available on the door, or by calling 07850 526062.

CASTLE Point Council says it is working to support the fundraising for the war memorial.

Following the criticism, a spokesman stressed the authority wanted to help.

She said: “Castle Point Council is honoured and pleased to support the project to renovate the Canvey War Memorial.

“The council has provided benefit in kind, well in excess of £8,000, in providing professional officer support for the design work and project management of the project including the appointment and supervision of the contractors.

“We are delighted with the progress by the committee which will mean the war memorial has been completed in time for the Remembrance Sunday services in the centenary year of the beginning of the First World War – a fitting tribute.”