Hullbridge became a Civic Parish in 1964  but Church of England worshippers had to attend Hockley Parish church which was about three miles away. It was not until 1968 that it had its own Parish church. The Church was built by Messrs Foyle & Marven over a period of approximately eighteen weeks on land which had been purchased from Messrs Owen Johnson Ltd., The new church was to be known as St. Thomas of Canterbury and was dedicated in October 1968 by the Bishop of Bradwell, the Venerable William Welch. The Church and meeting hall are in Thorpedene Avenue and the building cost was £8,000.

 

The Reverend George Rothey officiated for the first six months when Father Gallon was appointed Curate-in-Charge. Father Gallon lived in Ferry Road Hullbridge. In addition to the Sunday Eucharist, a Eucharist was also held on Tuesday mornings and Thursday evenings. There was also a Sunday School.<none>The first wedding at St Thomas' was between Margaret Elves and Terry Johnson and took place on 3rd June 1972. At this time the Vicar of St. Peter and St Paul, Hockley, was Father Curzon.

 

Acknowledgement

The above information was taken from data supplied by Hullbridge resident Gary Congram. It came from The Southend Standard dated 17th October 1968. Further detail was supplied by Margeret Johnson

 

Much later, A steeple was added. This was designed and manufactured by a member of the Church congregation, Brian Weekes, who was assisted by other members of the congregation.