MORE than 1,000 people flocked to Leigh Fire Station for some festive, family fun and hundreds of pounds was raised for charities.

The station’s Christmas Fayre, which is now in its third year, saw two Santa’s grottos set up while the popular fire engines were on display to be admired by the children.

David Walpole, station commander, said: “It was a great day; more than 1,000 people walked through the doors throughout the day, and the school choirs really made the day unique.

“We had school choirs from North Street and Chalkwell Hall Juniors which went down really well.

“We have a proper stage that they used with audio equipment from Maple Audio and the kids really seemed to enjoy themselves, especially being at the fire station as well.

He added: “We really want to keep the choirs going each year; any local schools that are interested should get in touch with us by calling the station.

“The mulled wine with the parents went down a treat of course as they watched the youngsters sing in the choir.

“Leigh Fire Station is a community based fire station, so it’s nice to get local people involved and that’s why we want more choirs involved.

“It’s nice to see all the families come together, and see all firefighters all together in one place as it rarely happens these days - even our CEO came down!”

“Our aero platform vehicle which is usually stationed at Southend that came along, which the kids love, and community responders were doing CPR, which was quite cool and loads of children gave it a go.