Join in the Pier's 148th birthday celebrations
July 15, 2019
It’s party time at Clacton Pier as the attraction celebrates its 148th birthday.
Free fireworks, a donut eating competition, classic cars, live music, children’s entertainment and face painting are included in the family fun lined-up for Saturday (July 20).
Last year the Pier officially opened the first phase of its new £4 million development on its birthday and the second phase has recently been completed.
Communications Manager Nigel Brown said that that new flooring has now been put down in the main concourse to match that in Discovery Bay and that was the final part of the project.
“The first phase was probably more exciting with the new attractions such as the golf and soft play, but the second phase was just as important to us – and probably more difficult,” he said.
“The Pier team has put in literally thousands of hours of work to transform the central concourse which had resulted in the front section of the site now being totally enclosed for 52-week a year operation.
“The amusement arcade has been upgraded, a new entrance constructed, and people have certainly noticed the difference. The response has been fantastic.
“Although that is phase one and two over, plans are already in the pipeline for further phases which will be very exciting. Customer expectations are high, and we want to continue to meet their demands.”
On Saturday the donut eating competition will take place at 1pm outside the Boardwalk Bar and Grill, with entry forms available from the bar.
Clacton Classic Car Club will be proudly showing off their vehicles from 11am to 2pm while Op Party time will be providing free face painting and a glitter station.
Live music comes from Tracey Moorehouse from 12noon to 4pm followed by SMC from 6pm to 10pm. James Magic Entertainment has performances for the kids at 12.30pm, 1.45pm, 3pm and 4.15pm.
Undoubtedly the highlight of the day will be a free firework extravaganza at around 9pm, one of seven staged throughout the year to thank customers for their loyalty.
“The Pier’s actual birthday is on July 21, but we always celebrate on the nearest Saturday as it is the best day for people to enjoy the fireworks,” added Mr Brown.
On Sunday there will be free music from Steve Ritchie from 1pm to 4pm and James Magic Entertainment will be back at the same times for more fun for the children.
Nigel Brown
Nigel joined Clacton Pier as its Communications Manager in February 2018. He had just retired as Tendring District Council's Communications Manager after 12 years. Previously he was Deputy Editor at the Clacton Gazette where he worked for 23 years.