A war memorial garden is being restored through the efforts of a retired resident and with the support of the community.
George Foster, who recently moved to Jaywick, discovered the garden in a state of neglect and decided to renovate it in honour of those it commemorates.
Mr Foster has been joined in the restoration efforts by residents, including Christopher Barrett and Tony Mack.
Together, they have cleared six tonnes of rubbish and debris and laid an equal amount of topsoil, all donated by supporters.
Improvements to accessibility are underway, with a wider path being built for wheelchair users.
Mr Foster has also gathered donations to support the ongoing work.
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A nearby school is helping to rebuild the central cross, and plans are in place for display cabinets to house plaques, as well as newly designed flower beds where ashes, flowers and additional plaques can be placed.
To help fund the remaining work, a GoFundMe page has been established.
Mr Foster said: "I am a retired gentlemen and I have been living in Jaywick Sands for three months.
"I discovered the memorial garden by accident and was shocked at the dilapidation and disrepair it had fallen into and wanted to honour our fallen heroes by bringing it back to its former glory with a few modern tweaks.
"I approached the local council who in return have said they have no available funds for the upkeep of the gardens, so I have taken it on myself to rebuild, upgrade and renovate the gardens for the public to enjoy and appreciate our heroes past and present."
A special event is being planned for March 15, 2026, beginning at 10.30am at the Broadway Pub in Jaywick.
It will give people the opportunity to lay plaques and ashes in memory of loved ones.
The event aims to bring families and friends together to remember both veterans and victims of the 1953 flood.
Refreshments will be available throughout the day, with curry and rice served from 1pm.
Entertainment will include music, karaoke and a performance by guitarist Owen Kenny.
Organisers also hope to see a large turnout of motorbikes as part of the event.
Plans for the garden include building raised borders with railway sleepers, repairing and repainting a boat-shaped seating arch, restoring plaques and statues, and adding benches and fencing to improve the space.
Jaywick councillor Bradley Thompson said: "It’s brilliant what they're doing, and if there's anything I could do to support them I would.
"The community spirit getting this garden put back to its former glory - I take my hat off to all involved."
Anyone wishing to support the project can donate via the GoFundMe page.
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