A South Essex MP supported the 40th anniversary celebrations of the Royal Naval Association Branch, in his constituency.
Rayleigh and Wickford MP, Mark Francois, whose father, Stoker 1st class Reginald Francois served in the Royal Navy during the Second World War, attended a special dinner at Saxon Hall, to mark the 40th anniversary of the Rayleigh branch of the Royal Naval Association (RNA).
The successful dinner and dance, which was attended by around 100 guests, was presided over by Branch Chairman Mike Sandbrook, assisted by an eager team of volunteers, who had worked all day to prepare and decorate the venue, including with a variety of naval ensigns.
Speaking about the event, Mark said:
“Almost as soon as I became the local MP, around twenty-five years ago, the Rayleigh RNA picked up on my late father’s naval service and invited me to become an honorary member. I have had a very happy link with the branch ever since and I was honoured to be invited to say a few words at their very enjoyable anniversary dinner. I wish them all the very best for their next forty years.”
