THE world’s first giant spider puppet is set to appear at Southend’s spooktacular Halloween Parade.

This weekend is the return of Southend’s popular Halloween Parade where more than 50 community acts are signed up and ready.

It is a free event which takes place on Saturday, October 29 from 6pm until 7:30pm.

There will be a host of local and national acts in their best and spookiest attire creating a memorable procession of light and colour.

READ MORE >> Popular Halloween parade route revealed as it returns to Southend this weekend

The event last year was a huge success, and as well as the return of the puppets previously, there will be a world first with a giant spider puppet… the Arachnobot by Tim Davies.

Carole Mulroney, councillor responsible for environment, culture and tourism, said: “I am delighted that the Southend Halloween Parade has become a permanent fixture on the Southend City calendar.

“We want it to be bigger and better each year.

“Involvement from businesses and community groups will bring us together and put the parade on the map and is vital for our economic recovery.

“We are aiming to attract visitors from far and wide to hopefully arrive early to enjoy everything Southend has to offer before they experience a magical evening of spookiness and an amazing Halloween Parade.”

The parade is organised by Southend-on-Sea City Council, in association with the Southend Tourism Partnership.

Jacqui Dallimore, chair of Southend Tourism Partnership, added: “The Southend Tourism Partnership are delighted to see the return of the Halloween Parade this Saturday, as last year’s event was hugely popular with both residents and visitors.

“We are looking forward to showcasing the community’s artistic flare with amazing professional looking entries.”