SCHOOL pupils are showing pride in their town by creating a ‘Basildon at 70’ float which they plan to enter into the Basildon and Pitsea Carnival.

Some 40 talented pupils from Ryedene Primary and Greensted Junior schools have created an array of costumes and decorations featuring their favourite things about Basildon and, of course, a huge number 70.

Riley from Greensted said his favourite part about the project was colouring and working as a team and Melissa from Ryedene added “it’s nice to work with children from other schools because you learn different stuff from them and you tell them about different stuff you do here”.

Ingrid Anderson, artist in residence at Ryedene Primary and Nursery School said the inspiration for the project is “everything Basildon”.

She added: “We’re working with children who were born here and have grown up here so we’re looking at Basildon landmarks, jobs, iconic people and what it’s like to live in Basildon.”

Tracy Dennis, head at Ryedene, added: “It has been Ryedene’s absolute privilege to lead these workshops on behalf of Basildon Council to help raise the profile of the carnival.”

Ian Hampshire, head at Greensted Junior School said: “Greensted Junior School is proud to take part in this carnival celebrating Basildon’s rich history.

“Our pupils have worked incredibly hard on this project and are keen to show off what they have produced.

“They have loved learning about the history of the new town from its humble origins back in the fifties to the incredible town we live in today.”

Gavin Callaghan, Basildon Council leader, added: “This is a great example of local groups and young people coming together to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Basildon New Town.” The carnival takes place on Saturday, 27 July.

with the parade starting at Holy Cross Fields at 12noon, finishing at Northlands Park with entertainment, stalls and activities for all the family.

To find out more about the events taking place throughout 2019 for Basildon at 70, please visit www.basildon.gov.uk/basildon70