Funnywoman Susan Calman will be celebrating Southend’s seafront as part of a TV series looking at the country’s top beaches.

The seaside town will feature in the comedian’s Grand Week by the Sea show on Channel 5 next week as it is named as one of the top holiday destinations in Britain.

It comes as more people are planning staycations this year due to the Covid pandemic, with Southend at the top of the list for many.

Business bosses say it’s great for Southend to get the recognition on national television.

Sadiq Chikte, 41, director at the plush Seven Hotel, in Clifton Terrace, said the exposure for the town will help businesses recover from the pandemic.

He said: “It’s great to see this and we’ve had Southend in a few different shows already including one on the BBC that we also featured in too.

“It’s good to get some positive coverage for the town and it’s a great seaside destination and this will just keep things moving after the Covid pandemic.

“The show featuring the town will help businesses to recover as so many have suffered. I think any sort of promotion is good for the town and it’s good to get even more exposure for our seaside destination.

“I think we could be on the level of Brighton and we have so much to offer here in Southend.”

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The show will also visit Great Yarmouth, Brighton, St Ives, and Blackpool.

Paul Thompson, 41, owner of Pebbles One Cafe, Marine Parade, also welcomed the show

He said: “I think it’s encouraging and it will be good publicity for the town and area. I think it will help draw more people and customers to the town and seafront.

“I think there will be a lot of people who haven’t been for some time and it will help refresh their memories about what is on offer here in Southend.

“I know staycations are at the front of most people’s mind so this is perfect timing for us.”