A SPECIAL event was held to mark 30 years of a woman's career in child care.

Maggie Brock, 57, has worked with youngsters on Canvey for three decades.

She now works at Little Nippers Preschool, Methodist Church, Waarden Road, Canvey.

The event was arranged by her boss Shelley Williams.

It was attended by councillors Ray Howard, Peter May and town mayor Barry Campagna

Maggie said: "I have such a great job and it was a lovely day.

"I had flowers, presents, a trophy. There were guests such as councillors and parents.

"It was just amazing."

She joined the preschool when it was set up five years ago and Shelley said she couldn't have done it without Maggie's help.

Shelley said: "She is just amazing and has worked with so many children.

"We get calls from parents saying about how she worked with their children and they have done well.

"It was a nice opportunity to celebrate her and all her work in our community."

Veteran Tory councillor Mr Howard said: "She has been working in our communities so many years and we are lucky to have her."