AN ICONIC ride at a theme park in Southend has made its long-awaited return after a complete refurbishment.

Adventure Island, in Western Esplanade, has confirmed that The Claw has returned in time for Halloween after having a £250,000 refit.

The ride was removed from the park back in 2021, after spending more than 20 years in the park.

The Claw has since returned as the “Devils Dance” with a fresh, face lift, with a reportedly new twists and turns.

Bosses say it is “rising from the shadows this Saturday, just in time for Halloween”.

Marc Miller, managing director The Stockvale Group of Companies, announced the exciting news.

He said: “Thrilled to announce the long awaited return of The Claw as the Devils Dance.

“It has undergone a complete refurbishment and overhaul, with every part and component replaced.

“After spending so much time up north with a company that specialises in computerised ride control systems, it is finally back — and it even came home with a northern accent.”

Back in 2021 when the ride closed, Philip Miller MBE, revealed after 21 years The Claw will be undergoing a £250,000 birthday refit.

It was returned to the manufacturer for a total overhaul.

This comes just weeks after the seafront theme park picked up two gold awards at the 2024 UK Theme Park Awards for “best seaside park” and “best value park”.