GOOD times were had by all as south Essex was awash with colourful and exciting celebrations for King Charles III.

Echo: Good vibes - Poppyfield Close, Eastwood has a great timGood vibes - Poppyfield Close, Eastwood has a great tim (Image: Gaz De Vere)

From bunting, to flags and plenty of royals masks, we did the King and Queen very proud.

Echo: Party - Celebrations in High Road, Langdon Hills - pic by Andrea InceParty - Celebrations in High Road, Langdon Hills - pic by Andrea Ince (Image: Andrea Ince)

There were at least 80 parties and events across Southend, Basildon, Castle Point and Rochford.

Echo: Cheers - Westcliff families get in the spiritCheers - Westcliff families get in the spirit (Image: Gaz De Vere)

Street parties were in full swing in Hildaville Drive, Westcliff, Poppyfield Close, Eastwood and many, many more.

Echo: Fun - Poppyfield Close, Eastwood has a great timeFun - Poppyfield Close, Eastwood has a great time (Image: Gaz De Vere)

The historic occasion drew communities closer as they drew up plans at the last minute.

Echo: Chin chin - Bowers Gifford residents Chin chin - Bowers Gifford residents (Image: Gaz De Vere)

The rain did not dampen any celebrations or parties, while barbecues and mini bars kept the revellers happy.

Echo: Sunny - Families in Hildaville Drive in Westcliff are had a great day for the daySunny - Families in Hildaville Drive in Westcliff are had a great day for the day (Image: Gaz De Vere)

Everyone commented on how it was vital to capture the community spirit, while coming together to supporting each other on this historic occasion.

Echo: Party - Families in Hildaville Drive in Westcliff Party - Families in Hildaville Drive in Westcliff (Image: Gaz De Vere)

Saturday’s rain saw plenty of wet parties but residents refused to stop having fun.

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Sunday’s sunnier and hotter weather was much welcome across the county.

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Parties and events continued yesterday with community centre celebrations and street bashes.

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The threat of heavy showers failed to dampen the mood as residents joined together to mark Great Britain’s first coronation in 70 years on Saturday. 

Echo: Hurray - The large party in East Thorpe, Basildon, for the coronation Hurray - The large party in East Thorpe, Basildon, for the coronation (Image: Gaz De Vere)

Dozens of street party licences were granted ahead of the bank holiday weekend and in true British fashion - residents refused to let a few showers ruin their fun.

Echo: Pop - Residents in Mistley Community Hall Pop - Residents in Mistley Community Hall (Image: Gaz De Vere)