Hundreds gathered to to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday on Thursday when a beacon was lit at Coalhouse Fort.

Mayor of Thurrock Councillor Sue Gray lit a beacon inside the fort at the same time as beacons were lit both across the country and in Commonwealth countries around the world.

The very first beacon had been lit by the Queen herself at Windsor Castle.

Thurrock Marching Brass opened the event at the fort which was attended by over 400 people, which was followed by a ceremony at nearby St Catherine's Church held by Canon Paul Robinson.

The special ceremony marked each decade of the Queen’s life - with candles to represent each decade.

Themed cakes were also given out during the evening from Thurrock Cake Emporium whilst Golden Voices provided singing entertainment.

The second Stanford Scouts helped and the event was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund.