MORE than 70 different faiths and backgrounds were represented at an event looking to strengthen relationships in Southend.

Groups including Love Southend, the Faith Based Regeneration Network and Southend Faith Forums attended the event in the Tickfield Centre, in Tickfield Avenue.

Entertainment was provided by children from the Malayalee Association who gave a demonstration of Bollywood dancing.

Council leader Nigel Holdcroft was pleased with how the event panned out.

He said: "“It is clear from contributions made during this event that working to improve the partnership between the Council and its different faith groups mean we can build strong foundations to further develop and improve facilities for our residents, while at the same time fostering better links with hard-to-reach groups."