It was a celebration of creativity at the second Connected Arts Festival at the Victoria Shopping Centre.

The day, hosted by N-act Theatre company, saw families make the most of the lots of fun artistic activities.

Echo: Judges having fun - John, Kim, Tracy, and RossJudges having fun - John, Kim, Tracy, and Ross (Image: Kim Tobin)

There were lots of fun and creative activities for youngsters to enjoy.

Echo: Artistic - Amber, aged five, from Leigh Artistic - Amber, aged five, from Leigh (Image: Kim Tobin)

It took place on November 18 on the top floor of the centre and included exhibitions, creative activities and the chance for people to talk to writers, artists, musicians about their work.

Echo: Great event - Anna Firth, Conservative MP for Southend West, came along to support the popular eventGreat event - Anna Firth, Conservative MP for Southend West, came along to support the popular event (Image: Kim Tobin)

The festival was originally inspired by Ukrainian artist, Vladyslava Zabielina, and her journey to the UK after she and her family fled their bombed home leaving everything behind - including her precious paintings and her art materials.

Echo: Inspired - Ukrainian artist, Vladyslava Zabielina,Inspired - Ukrainian artist, Vladyslava Zabielina, (Image: Kim Tobin)

There were special guests comedians and Essex Radio Presenters Ross McGrane and John Oakes and Southend Portrait Artist of the year winner Kim Davey.

They guests were asked to judge the ‘Out Of The Box’ Art Competition.

See www.nacttheatre.co.uk for details.