One of Clacton Pier’s busiest weekends of the year so far went off with a real bang!
The seaside attraction staged its first free fireworks extravaganza of the school summer holidays and the crowds flocked to the venue.
Families poured onto the pier on both Saturday and Sunday and it is hoped that business will remain brisk with the weather set fair for the week ahead.
General Manager Harry Peek said it was a welcome change in the weather that made the real difference.
“It’s no coincidence that when we get a good forecast followed by wall to wall sunshine that we see a big increase in visitors heading for the coast,” he said.
“Hopefully other attractions and businesses in the town and district also felt the effects and enjoyed a boost in trade.
“It has taken a long time for summer to arrive; we hope it is here to stay for the rest of the school holidays and we can pick up from a relatively slow start to the season.”
Mr Peek added that there was a real buzz around the attraction and lots of smiling faces.
“The fireworks went down really well with crowds packed on the end of the pier and along the seafront and promenade,” he said.
“This first one of the school summer holidays was a huge thank you to all who voted for us in the Muddy Stilettos Awards and are voting for us in the UK Theme Parks Awards 2024.”
There was also free live music from Lee Rutter and Tailfeathers and rides remained open until 10pm on Saturday.
There will be further free displays and live music this Saturday (August 3) and on August 10 and 17.
The pier will also be staging a free fireworks extravaganza in support of the Clacton Air Show on Thursday August 22 following the night flights. It is a Best of British Aviation musical display which returns for a second year by popular demand.
There is a further display for bank holiday on Sunday August 25.
Anyone wanting to vote for the pier in the UK Theme Park Awards has until September 1 to register their support at https://ukthemeparkawards.com/vote
PHOTOS BY KEVIN JAY/DRONESHOTZ
