Southend's Adventure Island is unveiling its new big wheel to visitors with a grand launch this weekend.

The City Wheel, visible across the city's skyline, cost in the region of £1million and is set to be a hit with tourists and residents alike.

The new attraction took shape quickly, being built in just a matter of days in November, and will now open to visitors on Saturday (Decemer 17).

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Footage of the City Wheel when it was being built

Adventure Island owner Philip Miller MBE previously told BBC Essex: "It's not like going down to Waitrose, when you've been in the business all your life you know who to ask and where to look. There are lots of manufacturers of big wheels, it's about finding the right one and getting the right deal.

"This one came along at the right price and right time, someone else cancelled an order, so we nipped in and got a good deal on it.

"It's about 36 metres and is about double the size of the one we have already so for us its enormous. I like big wheels because these are rides for everyone and the whole family."

There will also be a specially modified car on the ride so wheelchair users can enjoy the sights.

Hitting out at online commenters who claimed the wheel wasn't wheelchair-friendly, Mr Miller said: "It is obvious we have a few trolls/keyboard warriors out there! 

"We asked for and have had supplied a specially modified car to enable wheelchair users to enjoy the sights

“In fact, as we speak, we are building a DDA approved ramp for access with the ride stopping and starting to allow people safely on and off it’s a ride for all.”

The city mayor will be opening the attraction on Saturday.

Southend Council was asked for its opinion in July on the new attraction, with documents revealing that the big wheel would be 36 metres tall, and the drop tower will stand at 38.2 metres.

It was previously reported other rides at Adventure Island would be moved for the development, but bosses confirmed there will be no changes to other attractions.

Saturday also marks the opening of Wonderland at Adventure Island until Christmas Eve (December 24). 

Youngsters will be able to meet Father Christmas and the theme park's outside rides will also be open.