The Mayor informed the Chamber that since the last meeting of Council he had the pleasure of attending an open evening event of Thurrock Marching Brass. He explained that Thurrock Marching Brass provided the youngsters of Thurrock and the surrounding areas with access to the marching and performing arts, giving them world class tuition in music, dance, marching, choreography, disciple, teamwork and fun.

He further reported that their Chairman, Paul Morgan, organised a World Record Attempt for the Longest Line of Fanfare Trumpeters in History, which included participants from all over the UK, including members of Thurrock Marching Brass, some of whom were as young as 10 years of age. The attempt was held at the Aveley Football Club ground on Sunday 7 September 2014 at a show for elite marching bands to compete against one another, which was also hosted by Thurrock Marching Brass. Members were advised that the attempt was successful and subsequently ratified by Guinness World Records. 

The Mayor presented the official Guinness World Record Certificate to Paul Morgan, Chairman of Thurrock Marching Brass, and congratulated him and everyone at Thurrock Marching Brass for their exceptional achievement.

Mr Paul Morgan, Chairman of Thurrock Marching Brass, thanked the Mayor for his kindness and generosity, for taking the time to attend the open evening event and in presenting the official certificate. He praised the musical talent of young people in the Borough and added that he was keen to raise the profile of such achievements as not all news stories about young people in the Borough were bad.

Mr Morgan invited the Mayor to accept the position of Honorary President of Thurrock Marching Brass on behalf of the Mayor’s Office, and added that he welcomed not only Councillor Liddiard but future Mayor’s of Thurrock to accept this position. Mr Morgan also paid particular thanks to his colleague Ken Mansfield, who was Corps Director at Thurrock Marching Brass for all his hard work.

The Mayor thanked both Mr Morgan and Mr Mansfield and accepted the position of Honorary President of Thurrock Marching Brass.

The Leader informed the Chamber of a particular incident in the build up to Holocaust Memorial Day in which acid was used to etch a swastika on the Holocaust Memorial. He condemned this despicable act and said that it was not often that he agreed with the words of Teresa May, who had recently reported that she thought she would never see the day where Jewish people were fearful of remaining here in the UK.

The Leader was saddened that such extreme intolerance still existed today but was pleased that so many colleagues stood together against this intolerance at the Holocaust Memorial Day service. He reported that it was the 70 year anniversary of the crimes of the Holocaust and also the 20 year anniversary of genocide in Bosnia.

The Leader further reflected on the recent senseless killings in and around Paris and stated that the events of the Holocaust should not be forgotten, and that difference should be embraced not vilified.

Members across the Chamber unanimously indicated their agreement and support to the sentiments raised by the Leader.