DOZENS of clubs and groups came together to compete in an annual sports day and fun festival for disabled people in Benfleet.

Run by the Lions Clubs of South East Essex at King John School, 43 wheelchair users competed along with 11 sight impaired and 150 other entrants.

Participants from 25 clubs and groups came from as far afield as Gosport, High Wycombe and Aylesbury, with around 450 people attending.

Field events included javelin, shot put, discus, bowls and archery, while indoor activities ranged from basketball and fencing to dancing and yoga.

The aim was to give an opportunity for people of all abilities and disabilities the chance to compete in a fun and competitive environment against their peers.

The Lions Clubs of South East Essex, made up of members from Castle Point, Eastwood, Leigh-on Sea, Rayleigh and Southend on Sea, were assisted by clubs from Clacton, Billericay, Basildon, Thurrock and Wickford to help organise the day.

Further support came from Active Essex, with some of the food provided by Tesco, Morrisons and Co-op supermarkets.

1341 (Thundersley) Air Cadet Squadron assisted with car parking, field events and clearing up, and St John Ambulance provided medical support in what was a real example of working together.

Present on the day were Southend’s deputy mayor Ann Holland, Castle Point mayor Cllr Clive Walter, Southend West MP Sir David Amess and Castle Point MP Rebecca Harris.

A representative from the Lions Clubs of South East Essex said: “The day was a great success. A massive thank you to the many volunteers, competitors and carers.

“We hope that everyone enjoyed the day and we look forward to welcoming everyone again next year.”