A famous tug boat, moored in Maldon, celebrated its 75th birthday last weekend with an art exhibition.

The Steam Tug Brent was due to celebrate turning 75-years-old in 2020, but the November exhibition was cancelled due to Covid restrictions.

The rescheduled exhibition took place in the Octagon Room in St. Mary's Church on Friday 16 July and Saturday 17 July. Over 80 artworks were on display.

It follows a community art competition held by the event organisers which allowed people to submit artwork ranging from models of the steam tug to drawings and paintings. Artists spent no more than £10 on creating each piece.

Visitors, who entered for free, enjoyed the tea and cakes available. They could sit outside on the sunny patio area, overlooking the Hythe.

The Brent is so special because it is one of the last of its kind, as the last-surviving steam vessel of the Port of London Authority's fleet and one of only three steam vessels left which were used on the River Thames and in the London Docks' system.

The Brent is one of only three steam "TID" class tugs left in Britain, out of the 182 built for the Admiralty as part of the War effort - mostly by women.

It is set to celebrate its 50th year since being berthed in Maldon later this year.

To find more information on the Brent, visit the website using the link here here.