A FESTIVAL atmosphere is set to take over Southend Pier with live music, DJs and a cocktail bar planned to help “return the landmark to its glory days”.

A “Party on the Pier” is being organised by Southend Council for the end of this month with live entertainment planned from noon to 7pm across the weekend.

The new event was announced yesterday after the new Labour-led council administration released its plans for “20 weeks of events” on the 1.33mile pleasure pier every year.

Two days of entertainment will include “live music, vibrant DJs, and a lively atmosphere right on the pier”.

Southend Labour cabinet member for culture, tourism and business, Matt Dent, thinks the event and the other recent successes will help Southend “return to the glory days of Southend Pier”.

He said: “This is yet another excellent event coming up on our pier.

“What we want to see is as many different events as possible, ensuring the widest possible appeal to get people onto the pier and enjoying the jewel in Southend’s crown.

“As we go forward I will be working with officers, private organisations, and even members of the public, to come up with ways to build on existing success and return to the glory days of Southend Pier.”

This summer has already seen a number of new events, organised under the former Tory administration, such as the “Springtime Festival” including fairground rides and music over half-term.

A shanty and folk show was held by the Old Time Sailors shanty group at the end of the pier on April 27 and 28, which proved incredibly popular.

Last month, a new souvenir shop opened on the pier, which is still the longest of its type in the world, and there was also the addition of an “authentic” pie and mash shop, Manze’s, at the Offshore restaurant.

A replica Spanish war ship, El Galeon, which acts as a floating museum, will also return to the pier later this summer.

A council spokesman said: “Two days of fantastic live music, vibrant DJs, and a lively atmosphere right on the pier. It’s the perfect way to kick off your summer.

“Enjoy a wide selection of drinks at our bar, serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic options for everyone’s taste. Dance to the beats, relax by the sea and soak in the summer vibes.

“Come and make great memories at the Southend Pier Summer Party. Usual pier admission prices apply.” The Southend Party on the Pier is on June 29 and June 30.