A new pocket-sized book with 100 stories about Thurrock’s heritage was launched yesterday with a crowd of 100 people.

A crowd gathered at Coalhouse Fort yesterday evening to celebrate the launch of new book, Thurrock 100 Stories.

The collection of stories has been published by Kinetika, the Purfleet-based arts organisation behind the Thurrock 100 initiative.

One hundred stories were collected by writer Laura Trevail, who did her research by attending community meetings and listening to local people talking about Thurrock.

Ms Trevail also ran workshops in 18 different primary and secondary schools from Tilbury to Grays, Horndon to Chadwell.

The book contains all 100 stories and photos of the 100 corresponding flags, together with historical information written by the late Jonathan Catton, Thurrock Council’s Museum and Heritage Officer.

The book is dedicated to Jonathan, who died unexpectedly last month and who was a ‘tremendous’ supporter of the Thurrock 100 initiative.

Robyn Llewellyn, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund East of England, which funded the Thurrock 100 Stories project this year, said:

“We’re delighted that National Lottery players’ money has made this fascinating book possible. The borough of Thurrock is jam-packed with interesting heritage, but much of it isn’t widely known.

“Thurrock 100 Stories has been a great opportunity to address that, and engage local people with the heritage of their community.”

Councillor Deborah Stewart, Portfolio Holder for Communities, said: “What a lovely way to celebrate Thurrock’s heritage and its vibrant community!

“I really enjoyed hearing some of the stories earlier this year, and I’m looking forward to reading all the rest!

“In fact I am planning to take the book with me as I travel around!”

Copies of the book will be sent to all Thurrock libraries and schools, and will also be available from Kinetika online for a nominal £5.00 + P&P.

To buy a book online visit http://thurrock100.com/product/thurrock-100-stories-book/

The Thurrock 100 Stories project was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Arts Council England, with the support of Thurrock Council and Coalhouse Fort, and other partners.