FAMILIES have enjoyed a weekend of laughter, fun, and music, as a new event kicked off on Southend Pier.
On Saturday, the Springtime Festival got underway as eager visitors enjoyed classic fairground games, music, and food.
The event is running every day single day on Southend Pier, until Sunday, June 2.
Visitors who attended the opening weekend, described it as “fantastic” and “definitely worth the visit”.
They were able to enjoy mini bumper cars, classic fairground games, and trampolines.
There was all tunes from DJ Greg Barker too.
Southend resident Helen McGhee Shine attend with her family and friends.
She said: “It was a great afternoon on the pier. A good selection of stalls, and bumper cars.
“A lovely atmosphere and definitely worth the visit. It was good to have the option of getting the train back too for little legs.
“There were fabulous tunes from The Middle Age Spread and lots of activities for all the family to enjoy. Also, the extra bonus of having the Lifeboat station to visit at the end of the pier.
“We had a lovely pie and mash, as well as ice-cream and coffee too. It was a great day.”
The event comes a week after the new Labour-led council released its aims for the city which included boosting trade and tourism by hosting dozens of big events throughout the year to attract residents from across the county.
The Labour, Lib Dem, and Independent administration wants to introduce “20 weeks of events on the Southend Pier” and at least “six major events across the city” - every year.
Westcliff resident, Luis Perez, 58, added: “From the moment we arrived, we felt the positive and joyful atmosphere of family and children enjoying the music and dancing.
“There was kiosk where kids were having there faces painted, and activities like the trampolines.
“But what really made the day so speak was the music of the Middle Age Spread and the DJ Greg Barker. It was fabulous.
“His music and brilliant personality drew everyone in to dance and enjoy the beautiful sunny day with blue skies.
“The day was fantastic, and I highly recommend it to everyone. We had such a great time.”
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