It's a bright but chilly day in January and I have just walked along the seafront from Westcliff to the town centre and back.
It's packed. The cars are bumper to bumper. The seafront cafes are full. The whole world seems to have turned out for the occasion.
The seafront walk is crowded with children pedalling or being pushed, with old folk, young folk, just strolling along.
This is Southend. We don't need mega attractions. We have the estuary.
I notice up on the cliffs areas of wild growth. This is good. We don't need manicured lawns and flower beds everywhere. Let nature take its course in some areas.
It's eco-friendly and provides contrast.
The roots of wild plants might bind the soil better than concrete. But I do miss the Bandstand. I used to dance there with ladies from all over the south of England. Southend is some place!
Ralph Walker
Holland Road
Westcliff
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