Southend shakedown in photos as it returns to seafront

The event saw young and old enthusiasts travel from across the country to show off their pride and joy.

It was the first time the annual event has been staged since the Covid pandemic struck and saw the seafront rammed with bikers.

Southend Council said the majority of its car parks were close to full at lunchtime, with a steady stream of visitors still turning up throughout the afternoon.

Bikers could be seen parked up along Marine Parade and outside Adventure Island on Western Esplanade as people spent their bank holiday by the sea.

Among those attending today’s shakedown was Gary Enever, 62.

He travelled from Rochester in Kent and admitted it was good to be back in Southend.

He said: “I have been here when it was last on before the pandemic, I am a Shakedown fan.

“I have come down again this year, because now the pandemic is over, as in no restrictions, I felt like more people would come and I think everyone is letting themselves go by having a good day!

“So, it has been good, the ride in was a bit stiff as it was 50 all the way in, but apart from that, it has been great.

“The atmosphere is really good too.”

Rookie biker Simon Oliver, 45 and from Laindon, was among a number of people attending their first shakedown.

He said: “This is the first time I have come to the Southend Shakedown, as I am quite new to riding motorcycles, I have only been riding a year.

“This too hasn’t been on for a couple of years, so it is my first, and I thought I would come down and see what it is like.

“It is great, it isn’t quite what I expect, as I didn’t expect it to be this busy, especially this early already!

“My family are also coming down on the train to meet me here too later, so we will all walk round together, have a look at the bikes, and even get some doughnuts along the seafront.“

Entertainment by way of live music was on offer during the event, which included a heavy police presence.

Chief Insp Darren Deex warned officers would ‘not tolerate’ any anti social behaviour from riders and would take action if necessary.

Checkout tomorrow's Echo for an extended photo gallery and report on today's shakedown