The skies of Southend seafront are set to dazzle tonight as eight weeks of spectacular fireworks get underway.

Every Saturday, starting from tonight, up until 16 November, residents and visitors will be treated to a thrilling display of huge fireworks.

The final fireworks event, on 16 November, will coincide with the 2024 Christmas switch-on event in Southend.

The fireworks are set off from a barge out in the Estuary, east of Southend Pier, meaning you can get a fantastic, uninterrupted view of the displays anywhere from Sealife Adventure to Genting Casino.

Seafront traders and sponsors have put their hands in their own pockets to ensure the much-loved fireworks continue after they were thrown into doubt when Southend's business improvement district pulled out of organising the event last year.

The Seaside Partnership - a group of businesses across the city - stepped in last year to ensure the event went ahead for residents and have once again joined forces to ensure the fireworks go ahead.

Marc Miller, chairman of The Seaside Partnership, said: “The Seaside Partnership are thrilled to bring back the free City of Southend fireworks.

"This event has become a beloved tradition, lighting up our seafront and bringing joy to both residents and visitors alike.

"The weekly displays wouldn’t be possible without The Seaside Partnership members and businesses, and to our individual sponsors for their incredible support and generosity."

The Seaside Partnership says the return is down to the financial contributions of members and sponsors, including the Essex Chambers of Commerce, c2c Rail, Adventure Island UK, Kingpins Southend, Southend Council, and the Southend City BID.

Denise Rossiter, CEO Essex Chambers of Commerce, said: “We are thrilled to support and be part of the annual Seafront Fireworks program, a cherished tradition for the people of Southend. Each year, residents eagerly anticipate the dazzling displays that illuminate the city's sky.

"These wonderful free events bring immense joy to the local community, offering a touch of sparkle during challenging times.

"We are proud to contribute to the Seaside Partnership, highlighting the resilient businesses that play such a vital role in our local economy."

Rob Mullen, managing director at c2c, added: "As a proud part of this community, we are thrilled to support the annual Seafront Fireworks display.

"This free event creates an exciting atmosphere and showcases the spirit that makes our city shine.

"Just as our trains connect people and places, events like this unite us to celebrate the moments that matter."

The firework displays have long been a staple of the city’s events calendar, attracting thousands of people to the seafront for an evening of entertainment.