SOUTHEND’S beloved Shakedown event could make a triumphant return to the city as organisers vow to pull out all the stops to make it happen. 

Adam Ball, chairman of the Southend Shakedown Association, has organised a meeting for interested parties to join forces, and is looking at ways to make the event “more friendly” for residents and traders. 

The 2023 Southend Shakedown was cancelled after a volunteer suffered a leg injury at last year’s events and organisers struggled to get safety precautions in place. 

Mr Ball said: “We’re looking for anyone that would like to help out and get this event going because time is ticking.

“I’ve loved being involved and the bikes have been coming to Southend for decades.

“It’s been tough but I’m one of those people who puts his money where his mouth is, I’d rather say something and do it rather than just moan.”

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This year’s cancellation has seen Southend Shakedown regroup in a bid to bring back the event next year without any hiccups.

A key concern is the amount of volunteers the group needs to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Mr Ball added: “We’re having trouble because we’ve got volunteers on two levels.

“On one hand we have the committee level which we’re short on members, we’ve barely got enough to form a quorum.

“Secondly we need more boots-on-the-ground volunteers who can help marshall the bikes.”

A meeting has been organised and residents keen to volunteer are encouraged to attend and share their ideas.

Adam said: “It’s an open forum as we look to get our ideas together before we go to the council.

“Once we have some direction and are comfortable with the organisation in general then we can go forward.

“People and resources are our main issue.”

Mr Ball added the main reason for opening the meeting to the public was issues they’ve had so far in approaching others for help.

James Courtenay, Southend councillor responsible for community safety and public protection, said:  “I was delighted to support the return of the Southend Shakedown in 2019 and so happy to see it remain just as popular as it was back in its heyday. The event has previously attracted up to 10,000 bikers and huge crowds of visitors, which is a huge boost for our seafront traders and local economy.

“In order for us to welcome and fully support any event, the organiser must consider all aspects of community safety, so the event can run smoothly and safely. ‘The council is always willing to offer advice on safety matters where appropriate.

“We look forward to receiving the event application for the Southend Shakedown and hope we can welcome it back in 2024.”

The meeting will take place at the Borough Hotel in Marine Parade on September 12, from 7.30pm.