Southend Pier & RailwayThursday, 2 April - Friday, 16 October 2026

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Explore the river Thames from Southend Pier with Southend Cruises from Jet Stream Tours. 

Check out below to find details of the upcoming day trips by river cruiser from Southend Pier and get set for a fabulous sightseeing adventure! All trips to and from Southend include Pier entry within your boat ticket. Various dates are available to book, please find booking information and dates available on the Jetstream Tours website.

Redsand Towers Tour

Take a cruise from Southend Pier to the eerie World War 2 Maunsell Forts, called the Red Sands Towers. The trip will also pass the Montgomery Wreck to closely examine the masts while they are still visible.

Rochester Day trip

The new and exciting trip to Rochester allows you to step back in time and visit Dickens country. Walk in the cobbled street of Historic Rochester, visit the best kept example of Norman Architecture with Rochester’s historic Castle, pop into Rochester’s Cathedral and have a spot of lunch.

Army Fort Experience

Take a cruise from Southend Pier to the eerie World War 2 Maunsell Forts, called the Red Sands Towers and venture further out to the Shivering Sand Towers.

Southend to Queensborough One-Way Only (Trial)

One way travel to Queenborough. Please note there is no return trip on this crossing. This Ticket will not return you to Southend. Please ensure when you are booking your trip that you have checked for a return crossing.

Lunch in Kent

Take a trip across to Queenborough to explore a quaint fishing village in Kent. You will be given time ashore to have a spot of lunch and take a wander. (Lunch not included)

Click here to book on the Jetstream Tours Website

All Cruise experiences depart from Southend Pier head.   

The Forum, Southend-on-SeaFriday, 29 May 20262.00 pm to 3.30 pm

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Join the Coastal Rangers from Bird Aware Essex for this illuminating talk on the wildlife of the Essex Coast. Bird Aware raises awareness of the native and visiting birds of our coastline and beyond. There will be informative activities and advice on how to help these birds thrive!

At the end of the talk there will be a prize draw to win one of three copies of Sir David Attenborough’s book ‘Ocean’.

Tickets are FREE and will be available from 12th May at: southendlibraries.eventbrite.com and from The Forum Reception Desk, call 01702 534111.

Prittlewell PriorySaturday 30 - Sunday 31 May 2026

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Join Southend Museums at Prittlewell Priory during May half term for ‘Wildlife Weekend’, a fun family event with bird of prey meet and greets, a flying display, games, crafting, face painting, an activity trail and more!

This May, pop down to the priory for a spring celebration of all creatures great and small. This year, we’re egg-specially excited about winged wildlife! We’re thrilled that the amazing team from Barleylands will be bringing a variety of their feathery friends along for you to meet and greet, with a special flying display at 1pm.

Throughout the day, you can have your face painted like your favourite animal, get creative making a critter craft to take home with you, visit stalls from local organisations to find out how we can care for the wildlife around us and try your hand at some silly, seasonal games and kids activities.

Feeling peckish? Have a close encounter of the cheesy kind with an amazingly oozey toastie from Melt, who will be serving up food including grilled toasties, baps and fresh pastries as well as a range of hot and cold drinks.

We also suspect that some sneaky seagulls have been causing all sorts of mischief at the priory, so make sure you help us complete the scavenger hunt during your visit to solve the puzzle and win a prize!

Under 3’s go free! Prebooking is recommended, as tickets sell out fast!

The event starts at 11am, and finishes at 3pm, on both the Saturday and the Sunday. Arrive any time from 11am.

The lease for the historic Kursaal building has now been assigned, marking a major step in bringing one of Southend’s most iconic landmarks back into use.

Southend-on-Sea City Council has confirmed that Remblance Leisure Limited, led by local operator Star Amusements, has taken on the lease following completion of the legal process.

The Council were instrumental in bringing the different partners together and getting the right deal signed.

The Grade II listed building, which has been closed since 2020, has faced well-documented challenges in recent years. The council has worked closely with partners to secure a long-term future for the site, with the agreement involving no financial subsidy.

The new operator will continue undertaking essential repairs to the building, alongside plans for a phased restoration and a renewed leisure and entertainment destination, helping to strengthen Southend'ss seafront for residents and visitors alike.

Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of Southend

Saturday, 30 May 20263.00 pm to 5.30 pm

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Come and join us Around the World for our famous afternoon tea and Cabaret. Tables are limited and as previous year book up fast, so early booking recommended. This years charity is the Intensive care ward, Southend Hospital.

Venue: St Andrews Church hall Church Road Shoeburyness Southend-On-Sea SS3 9EU

Beecroft Art GallerySaturday, 30 May 2026

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‘State of Her’ is a survey of Heidi Wigmore’s studio practice across three decades as a commentary on contemporary womanhood. From billboards and banners to painting, film and found objects, she has developed a hybrid visual language that challenges, distorts and subverts idealized visual tropes of the female form.

The exhibition runs from 30 May 2026 – 23 August 2026NOW OPEN! Explore close to 500,000 incredible objects from South Essex at the Southend Museums Collections Centre

• Southend Museums Collections Centre (SMCC) opened to the public this month, marking an exciting new chapter of accessibility and engagement with the museums’ diverse collections  
• The collections feature objects not only from Southend, but the entire South Essex region  
• Visitors to SMCC can book a space to tour the collections store, browse the curatorial library, and delve into the photography archive  

The new Southend Museums Collections Centre (SMCC) officially opened to the public earlier this month, offering visitors the rare chance to go behind the scenes and get up close to incredible pieces of local heritage. 

Located within the Beecroft Art Gallery, the Centre houses objects from archaeology, social history, and natural history collections that are not currently on display. 

Visitors who book an SMCC tour will be able to step into the often‑unseen and mysterious world of museum conservation and curation. It’s a rare and unique opportunity to experience the rich heritage of Southend and the wider South Essex region and to learn directly from the experts who work with these priceless objects every day. 

The Centre’s new layout also supports the important behind‑the‑scenes work that keeps the collections safe. Conservators can now more easily conduct regular condition checks, carry out preventative conservation, and reduce risks from pests or environmental hazards. Curators benefit too, with improved access that helps spark ideas for upcoming exhibitions. 

Curator of Archaeology Jools McCusker Maxwell said, “SMCC offers visitors the chance to explore our wonderful collection of close to half a million local history and archaeology objects that are not currently on display. These artefacts tell the story of the local area and community from prehistory up until today. If you lined up all the shelves in the collections centre it would be longer than the Southend Pier! So, visitors can be sure there is plenty to see!” 

Stories to tell beyond Southend 

Although SMCC plays a major role in showcasing the heritage of Southend and telling its story, the collections span the whole of South Essex and the Thames Estuary. 

By opening the stores to the public, the Collections Centre helps people see themselves and their communities reflected in the region’s shared history. As you walk through the rows of shelves, it feels like travelling through time—imagining life in 17th‑century Leigh‑on‑Sea with a clay pipe in hand or visualising someone sharpening a Palaeolithic handaxe in what is now Great Wakering. 

Are you in?  

Everyone is invited to explore the extraordinary range of natural, artistic, industrial, and technological treasures that were previously inaccessible to the public. Whether you’ve always wanted to admire the country’s largest collection of historic EKCO radios, or hear conservators explain the story behind a prehistoric paddle discovered on the River Crouch, SMCC offers a rare chance to walk among history and uncover the untold stories of South Essex. 

Director of Southend Museums Ciara Phipps said, “We are so excited to open the stores to the community in a way we have never been able to before. These tours will allow our visitors to understand and learn more about what we do, how we work with and care for the museums' collections, and how they can engage directly with them. There are so many exciting developments to come, so stay tuned!" 

This is only the beginning for SMCC. Future plans include new additions to the collections, redesigned tours, and improvements to the building itself. As visitors will be able to experience this growth as it happens, they’re encouraged to return to SMCC again and again.  

• Southend Museums Collections Centre (SMCC) is located on the 2nd floor of the Beecroft Gallery. The address is Beecroft Art Gallery, Victoria Ave, Southend-on-Sea SS2 6EX.  
• SMCC tours will run two Thursdays a month during the spring season. 
• Tickets are £13.70 per person. 
• SMCC tours and reading room sessions can be booked on Eventbrite. 

Over the winter, Southend’s dedicated Tree Wardens have been busy carrying out a  Stone Age woodland practice in a small area, known as a “coupe,” within the serene Hadleigh Great Wood.

 Coppicing is traditional practice involves cutting certain trees just above ground level to encourage fresh, vigorous growth. Species such as oak, ash, hazel and hornbeam naturally regenerate, producing multiple stems from the base. These “stools” are then re-coppiced on a 10 to 30 year cycle, creating a sustainable supply of timber while bringing enormous ecological benefits.

Positive practice, longer life

It might feel counterintuitive to cut trees back to stumps, but coppicing is one of the best things we can do for their long-term health.

Believe it or not, by regularly coppicing trees, we can extend their natural lifespan by up to four times. Some of the oldest coppice stools in Southend’s woodlands are thought to be more than 300 years old; living history that continues to regenerate thanks to this traditional practice.

New life emerges

And then there’s biodiversity. When a coupe is cut, sunlight can finally reach the woodland floor, creating the perfect environment for wildflowers and undergrowth to flourish and the results can be seen for years to come.

This burst of new plant life provides food and shelter for a huge range of insects, birds and mammals, including:

• the rare and threatened Heath Fritillary butterfly
• the charming Hazel Dormouse
• the majestic Tawny Owls
• the active little Treecreeper birds

This work supports the Council’s wider commitment to enhancing and protecting Southend’s natural environment under our ‘Safe, Clean and Green’ priority. The Corporate Plan 2024–2028 sets out a clear ambition to “enhance the environment, biodiversity and our coastline” and to upgrade parks and green spaces as part of improving the city’s overall environmental quality.

Nothing goes to waste

Every piece of timber removed from the coupe is reused on site through a traditional craft known as “dead hedging.” The cut wood is carefully stacked into a natural fence that:

• protects the newly opened woodland floor
• prevents trampling
• shelters key wildflowers such as bluebells and cow parsley
• locks up carbon
• creates valuable habitats for small mammals, birds and insects

In our opinion, it also looks beautifully rustic; a feature that blends seamlessly into the woodland landscape while quietly doing important work.

Signs of spring

During the team’s most recent visit, two lovely butterflies, a Brimstone and a Peacock, fluttered in, signalling the arrival of spring and the success of the work. If anything, this is Mother Nature’s way of telling us to turn off Netflix and turn to the wild instead.

Walk with us in the woods

This spring, Southend’s Tree Wardens are hosting “Rackham Revisited,” a wonderful series of guided walks exploring the ancient woodlands of South-East Essex. Walks take place across several beautiful sites, and each session offers a gentle 2 to 3-hour wander led by knowledgeable volunteers.

All walks are free of charge, with optional donations to the Woodland Trust and Ancient Tree Forum welcome. Up to 25 people can join each walk, and they are suitable for all ages.

Upcoming walk dates

Wednesday 15 April: Oakwood Park

Sunday 19 April: West Wood

Thursday 23 April: Hadleigh Great Wood

Tuesday 5 May: Belfairs Park

Sunday 10 May: Edwards Hall Park

Friday 15 May: Hadleigh Great Wood

Saturday 16 May: Oakwood Park

 Thursday 4 June : Edwards Hall Park

Saturday 6 June: Belfairs Park

Tuesday 16 June: West Wood

Friday 26 June: Belfairs Park

Saturday 4 July: West Wood

To book your place or find out more, or if you would like to get involved in the Tree Wardens’ work, please email treewardens@southend.gov.uk.

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• Concessionary free bus travel at peak times for disabled residents and companions from 1 April
• Improvements made to disabled parking bays across the city to boost accessibility
• Free parking retained for all Blue Badge holders, including out of area visitors

Southend-on-Sea City Council is improving accessibility and supporting residents with the introduction of free peak bus travel for residents with disabilities and their companions.

From 1 April 2026, Southend residents with disabled concessionary bus passes will be able to travel free from 6am for journeys starting within Southend. This will help residents who need to travel earlier in the day for work, appointments or education.

The council will also receive £8.5 million in dedicated bus funding over the next three years. This will support work to improve reliability, provide better connections and respond to the city’s growing transport needs.

Recent improvements already include the new 23A/B service between Leigh-on-Sea Station, London Southend Airport and Airport Business Park along with the 3A supported service between Southend and Leigh running via the Hospital and Blenheim Chase. Bus routes 2A, 24 and 29 are being supported to operate later into the evening.

As part of the council's wider accessibility work, we have removed advisory bays, ensuring that all disabled parking bays are enforceable for the exclusive use of Blue Badge holders, and ensuring that the installation of new bays comes at no cost for eligible applicants.

Peter Slattery, chair of the Southend Area Bus User Group (SABUG), said: “I would like to thank the council for the planned extension to disabled concessionary bus passes. Disabled concessionary pass holders will be able to board buses a full three hours earlier than the current restrictions allow, starting from 6am every day from 1 April onwards, which is wonderful news.

“This will help me and fellow disabled pass holders travel to early GP and hospital appointments within Southend. It also means those who are employed can now use the buses free of charge to get to work. And it gives people the opportunity to travel into Southend High Street to meet friends and family for breakfast and a chat before starting their day’s adventure. Again, I thank the council.”

Cllr Paul Collins, Cabinet Member for Finance, Assets and Public Transport, said: “Our aim is to make transport more reliable, more accessible and easier for everyone to use. Introducing the early start concessionary pass will make a real difference for disabled residents who need to travel before 9am.

“Alongside the confirmed bus funding and recent improvements to routes and late-night services, this allows us to continue strengthening Southend’s transport network for years to come.”

Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of the Council, said: “Making this change gives people with disabilities more flexibility and freedom. We’re delighted that our prudent management of the council finances affords us the ability to make positive changes like this, and to support our residents to be active and mobile. My personal thanks go to the resident who raised this with us and got us looking at this issue more closely."

• Three late evening journeys added to Route 6 to and from Garon Park 
• Two new late services added to Route 2A serving Shoeburyness and East Beach 
• Saturday-only frequency on Route 9/9A reduced due to low use 

Southend’s night time travel options will get a major boost this month, as the Council and Arriva agree to extend late evening bus services across the city. Subject to traffic commissioners' approval, the new services will launch on Sunday 31 August 2025, with funding secured through grants under Southend’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP). Route 6, which runs via Sutton Road and Cluny Square to Garon Park, has already seen success thanks to a council-funded extension earlier this year. That support will now expand to include three new late evening journeys, leaving Southend at 19:35, 20:35 and 21:35, and returning from Garon Park until 22:05. Route 2A, which runs via Southchurch Road and Thorpe Bay Station to Shoeburyness East Beach will also benefit from two new late-night services. Buses will now depart Southend Bus Station at 23:15 and 00:15, continuing all the way to East Beach, significantly improving the current timetable.  As part of the review, Saturday only buses on routes 9 and 9A will go back to running every 20 minutes instead of every 15, starting Sunday 31 August. This change follows lower than expected passenger numbers.  Cllr Paul Collins, cabinet member for finance, assets, and investments, said: “I’m really pleased that we’re expanding late-night bus services to help people get around safely and easily, especially to support Southend’s evening and night-time economy. “The success of the Garon Park route shows that when we invest wisely in public transport, it works. These extra services on Routes 6 and 2A mean more people can get home from work or enjoy an evening out, with safer, more accessible travel later into the night. “We’ve looked carefully at how services are being used and made decisions based on that. I’m confident these changes will make a real difference.” Cora Woodhouse, marketing and customer service director at Arriva, said: “Through close working relationships with Southend-on-Sea City Council we’re really pleased to be introducing late night trips on service 2A to Shoeburyness East Beach and additional trips for service 6 to Garon Park. These services are a convenient, sustainable travel option for residents and we’re committed to supporting greener, more accessible transport across the area.” 

Southend-on-Sea City Council is pleased to confirm a new agreement with Stephensons of Essex to deliver a vital extended bus service for residents living around Highlands Estate and West Leigh areas.The extended service, funded by the Department for Transport’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) Bus Grant and is part of the council’s continued commitment to restoring and enhancing local public transport.Launched 28 July 2025, the extended service 17 and 17A will run hourly on weekdays during the morning and early afternoon, connecting the Highlands Estate and Belfairs Swimming Centre with Leigh and Southend-on-Sea city centre. This marks a significant development for the local community, which has been without a dedicated service for many years.The new routes will provide direct connections to services along London Road, Leigh town centre, and Chalkwell and Westcliff stations for onward travel on c2c services.Cllr Paul Collins, cabinet member for finance, assets, and investments, said: “We’re pleased to bring back a bus service for the Highlands Estate. This new connection will be a lifeline for many residents, improving access to the City Centre and other key destinations. “It’s part of our broader efforts to restore essential services, encourage bus travel, and reduce the number of car journeys, all of which contribute to better air quality and a more sustainable city.”The extended service will start at the Heygate Avenue stop at the Southend Travel Centre and travel past Cliffs Pavilion, Westcliff and Chalkwell stations, Grand Drive and Leigh Broadway. Service 17 will continue past Leigh Station, while the 17A will travel via Hadleigh Road to Belfairs Swimming Centre, before both routes head along Highlands Boulevard to terminate at Woodlands Park.Timetables for the new 17 and 17A services will be available on the Stephensons website and App ahead of the launch.To find out more about Southend-on-Sea’s BSIP, visit: Southend Bus Service Improvement Plan – Southend Bus Service Improvement Plan and Enhanced Partnership – Southend-on-Sea City Council 

• £8.5 million confirmed for Southend bus services over the next three years
• Provides long-term certainty to plan improvements across the network
• Builds on recent progress such as the 23A/B Service from Leigh-on-Sea Railway Station to London Southend Airport and Airport Business Park route
• The reintroduced 17/17A service to the Highlands Estate and extended late-night services

Southend-on-Sea is set to benefit from £8.5 million in dedicated bus funding over the next three years, helping to improve reliability, provide better connections, and support the city’s growing transport needs for passengers. Southend-on-Sea City Council will receive:

• 2026/27 – £2,796,830
• 2027/28 – £2,833,477
• 2028/29 – £2,870,123

This multi-year allocation allows the council to plan improvements across the network with confidence. It also enables Southend to build on recent successes, including the new 23A/B bus service from Leigh-on-Sea Railway Station to London Southend Airport route and Airport Business Park and the extension of late-night bus services, which are already giving passengers more choice and flexibility when travelling.The funding will complement ongoing work to make services more reliable and easier to use, helping more people access jobs, education, leisure, and essential services across the city.Cllr Paul Collins, Cabinet Member for Finance, Assets and Public Transport, said: “This is very positive news for Southend. With the introduction of the Leigh Station to London Southend Airport service, improvements to local routes, and our recently extended late-night services, we’ve already started to make a real difference for passengers. “We need to reduce the use of car journeys, by supporting new and enhanced bus services, and at the times when people need them.”“This £8.5 million in confirmed, multi-year funding gives us the stability to continue that work, plan ahead, and keep improving the bus network for everyone who relies on it.”The allocation forms part of a wider funding package for the East of England, designed to support local authorities in enhancing and maintaining their bus services.For Southend, it represents a significant opportunity to continue strengthening public transport and ensure services remain accessible, sustainable, linked up and fit for the future.   

Southend-on-Sea City Council has been announced as a Gold Member Investor in Wildlife by Essex Wildlife Trust, acknowledging their commitment to environmental conservation and wildlife protection .The accolade was presented at the Belfairs Nature Discovery Centre. Councillor Lydia Hyde, cabinet member for climate, environment, and waste and Alan Richards, executive director for environment and place at the council, received the Gold Member certificate from Grant Maton of Essex Wildlife Trust. Belfairs Nature Discovery Centre is a community and education centre. It is an important gateway to the Belfairs and Daws Heath Living Landscape, in south Essex, where Essex Wildlife Trust and Southend-on-Sea City Council are working together with many partners and local people on conservation and education activities, to preserve this fantastic landscape for future generations. Essex Wildlife Trust, the county's leading conservation charity, is dedicated to safeguarding wildlife through the management of nature reserves. The Trust collaborates with various organisations to maintain and protect these natural habitats. Southend-on-Sea City Council plays a pivotal role in managing several key nature reserves, either directly or in partnership with other organisations. Directly managed sites include Belfairs Nature Reserve, Belfairs Wood, Edwards Hall Park and Belton Hills Local Nature Reserve. In collaboration with partners, the council also oversees Two Tree Island and Old Ranges, Shoeburyness. Councillor Hyde said: "We are proud to have received the certificate from Essex Wildlife Trust, which confirms our Gold Member status as an Investor in Wildlife. Residents regularly tell us how important our natural spaces are to them, so it's vital we preserve this fantastic landscape for current and future generations. "We work closely with Essex Wildlife Trust, along with many partners and local people, to collaborate on a range of innovative projects that enhance sustainability and reduce our impact on wildlife habitats and the local environment."I encourage everyone to come along and explore these incredible natural spaces on our doorstep and get involved in the various activities provided here that allow us to connect with nature."More information about our nature reserves as well as Green Flag parks and gardens is available on our Visit Southend website 

Southend-on-Sea City Council, in partnership with Arriva, is excited to announce enhancements to bus routes for residents, thanks to the Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP).Arriva Service 29 now includes two additional return evening journeys between Belgrave Road and the City Centre from Monday to Saturday. These enhancements will greatly benefit residents in Westborough, Blenheim Park, and Belfairs wards. Arriva Service 9 will increase its Saturday frequency from every 20 minutes to every 15 minutes between Rayleigh Station and North Shoebury, benefiting residents in Eastwood Park and St Laurence wards.These service enhancements have been made possible by DfT BSIP Phase 2 funding. They follow the recent restoration of the bus route between the City Centre and Garon Park, further strengthening Southend’s bus network. Councillor Paul Collins, cabinet member for finance, assets, and investments, said: “We are delighted to extend the Arriva 9 and 29 bus services, building on the restored City Centre to Garon Park route.“Our Bus Service Improvement Plan and funding support cheaper travel, more  reliable journeys, and increased passenger satisfaction. Enhancing these services aligns with our commitment to improving connectivity and accessibility across Southend-on-Sea. It also encourages more people to travel by bus, reducing car journeys and thereby improving air quality."  

• £8.5 million confirmed for Southend bus services over the next three years
• Provides long-term certainty to plan improvements across the network
• Builds on recent progress such as the 23A/B Service from Leigh-on-Sea Railway Station to London Southend Airport and Airport Business Park route
• The reintroduced 17/17A service to the Highlands Estate and extended late-night services

Southend-on-Sea is set to benefit from £8.5 million in dedicated bus funding over the next three years, helping to improve reliability, provide better connections, and support the city’s growing transport needs for passengers.Southend-on-Sea City Council will receive:

• 2026/27 – £2,796,830
• 2027/28 – £2,833,477
• 2028/29 – £2,870,123

This multi-year allocation allows the council to plan improvements across the network with confidence. It also enables Southend to build on recent successes, including the new 23A/B bus service from Leigh-on-Sea Railway Station to London Southend Airport route and Airport Business Park and the extension of late-night bus services, which are already giving passengers more choice and flexibility when travelling.The funding will complement ongoing work to make services more reliable and easier to use, helping more people access jobs, education, leisure, and essential services across the city.Cllr Paul Collins, Cabinet Member for Finance, Assets and Public Transport, said: “This is very positive news for Southend. With the introduction of the Leigh Station to London Southend Airport service, improvements to local routes, and our recently extended late-night services, we’ve already started to make a real difference for passengers.“We need to reduce the use of car journeys, by supporting new and enhanced bus services, and at the times when people need them.”“This £8.5 million in confirmed, multi-year funding gives us the stability to continue that work, plan ahead, and keep improving the bus network for everyone who relies on it.”The allocation forms part of a wider funding package for the East of England, designed to support local authorities in enhancing and maintaining their bus services.For Southend, it represents a significant opportunity to continue strengthening public transport and ensure services remain accessible, sustainable, linked up and fit for the future.  

Shoebury East BeachSunday, 14 June 20267.30 am to 2.00 pm

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Whether you’re a seasoned runner, just breaking into the world of half marathons or lacing up your shoes in memory of a loved one, this is the perfect half marathon for you.What makes this half marathon truly special is the impact each mile has on the families Havens Hospices cares for. With every step, you contribute to ‘Making every day count’ for people of all ages who are living with incurable conditions and their families.Your entry fee covers the costs of running the event and this year we are asking participants to become a “Havens Hero” and purchase the Havens Hero entry tickets, which includes the cost of providing half an hour of essential care at the hospice, making a real difference for someone in need.So, lace up and sign up for a cause that truly matters. The Southend Half Marathon – where your run counts, and every step supports local hospice care.  

Saturday, 30 May 2026

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This year’s Southend Barge Match will take place on Saturday 30th May.

HW will be 1254, so the earliest likely start will be around 10:30.

The Thorpe Bay Yacht Club will host the event.

The race will start and finish off the Thorpe Bay Yacht Club, and sail an inshore course involving a buoy positioned off Jubilee Beach, details of which will be determined the day before the race, based on forecast weather conditions.

There will be a supper and prizegiving in the evening in the Thorpe Bay Yacht Club.

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 On this day in History  May  26

 1798Income Tax was introduced into Britain - a 10% tax on all incomes over £200 a year.
 1897Dracula, a novel by Irish author Bram Stoker was published. The town of Whitby  has associations with Bram Stoker, as he based much of his Dracula novel here whilst staying in Whitby in 1890. 

 1950Long queues appeared at garages and motorists tore their ration books into confetti after the end to petrol rationing.
 1989The BBC broadcast the 10,000th episode of the daily radio serial The Archers. 

Famous Birthdays

  1904The birth, in Wigan, of George Formby, English singer and comedian. He was famous for his comic songs, full of double entendre, to his own accompaniment on the banjo ukulele.   (died. 1961) 

1909   Matt Busby, Scottish soccer forward (Manchester City, Liverpool) and manager (Manchester United 1945-69, 70–71; Scotland 1958), born in Orbiston, Bellshill, Scotland (d. 1994) 

 1913The birth of Peter Cushing, known for his many appearances in Hammer Films, in which he played the distinguished-looking but sinister scientist Baron Frankenstein and the vampire hunter Dr. Van Helsing. Died 1994.

1946   Mick Ronson, English rock guitarist and producer (Mott the Hoople; The Spiders From Mars), born in Kingston upon Hull, England (died. 1993) 

1975   Kwasi Kwarteng, British politician (Chancellor of the Exchequer), born in London .

Sunday, 31 May 202611.00 am to 3.00 pm

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Come and join us for a free admission day of live music and over 30 local sellers, including food and crafts and plenty of space for the kids to run off some steam after a long half term!

Venue: Ekco Social Club, Thornford Gardens, Southend, SS2 6PUSouthend's much‑loved Halloween Parade will return in 2026 for its sixth year, and for the first time ever it will take place on Halloween night itself - Saturday 31 October.

Promising a fun‑filled, family‑friendly celebration packed with creativity and community spirit, this year's event is set to be a truly unforgettable after‑dark celebration.

Now firmly established as a highlight of Southend's annual events calendar, the Halloween Parade brings the seafront to life each year with a spectacular showcase of costumes, creativity and community spirit.

Thousands of residents and visitors are expected once again to gather along the route to enjoy the illuminated nighttime procession and soak up the electric atmosphere.

The parade is renowned for its vibrant mix of giant puppets, energetic dance troupes, and mesmerising performers, all coming together to celebrate Halloween in style.

Previous years have seen over 50 ghoulish acts take part, and 2026 aims to raise the bar even higher with an unforgettable Halloween night spectacular.

Aida Esposito, Director of Culture, Leisure, Music and Tourism at Southend-on-Sea City Council, said: "The Southend Halloween Parade has become one of our most popular and loved events.

"Holding it on Halloween night this year will make it even more special, creating an unforgettable experience for families, residents and visitors while continuing to support our local economy and cultural scene."

Taking part in the parade is free and open to everyone, as long as participants are illuminated and in costume. Local dance groups, theatre companies, schools, clubs and creative communities are all encouraged to take part and bring their spellbinding ideas to life.

From bone‑chilling dance routines and eerie musical performances to spine‑tingling theatrical creations, all types of creative acts are welcome to help make the 2026 parade the most spooktacular yet.

Join us on Halloween night, Saturday 31 October 2026, for a frightfully fun celebration and help make this year's Southend Halloween Parade the most magical and memorable yet.

To register your group or find out more, visit www.southendhalloween.org.

Spaces are expected to fill quickly, and early registration is strongly encouraged to secure a place in the parade line‑up.

• Three new Autism Resource Bases have opened at Blenheim Primary, Thorpedene Primary and Shoeburyness High School, providing specialist support within mainstream school settings.
• The bases offer a calm, purpose‑built environment with expert staff, enabling children to access personalised support while remaining included in their wider school community.
• The new provisions form part of the Council’s wider SEND strategy to expand local specialist places, reduce out‑of‑area placements and support children closer to home.

Southend-on-Sea City Council is proud to announce the official opening of three new Autism Resource Bases (ARBs) at Blenheim Primary School, Thorpedene Primary School, and Shoeburyness High School.

Together, the three ARBs significantly increase local specialist capacity, enabling more children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities to access specialist support while remaining within mainstream schools and their local communities.

The new ARBs are designed to provide a "best of both worlds" approach: offering high-intensity, expert support in a calm, low-arousal setting, while facilitating meaningful inclusion with mainstream peers.

During the opening of the ARB at Blenheim, Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of the Council, highlighted the significance of the project, saying: “I’m proud to see our new Autism Resource Bases being delivered across the city. These aren’t just buildings — they’re a long-term investment in Southend’s children and families. By expanding specialist support within mainstream schools, we’re helping children get the right support close to home, while strengthening the inclusive, compassionate school communities we have in Southend.”

The launch of these three bases is part of the Council’s wider SEND strategy to increase the number of local specialist places, reducing the need for out-of-area placements and keeping children close to their homes and communities.

Our latest animated video brings the transformation of Queensway to life. Watch all the works and plans unfold visually, so you can see exactly what’s coming next and how your community is changing.

• Watch it happen on our YouTube channel
• Stay in the loop: email betterqueensway@southend.gov.uk to join our mailing list.

For more updates, visit our website regularly: we’ll keep you informed as Better Queensway takes shape. 

  Council launches ‘one stop shop’ for support to bring back hundreds of empty homes back into use

• Council launches a new, ‘one-stop shop’ for support to bring hundreds of potential empty homes back into use
• All known owners of long-term empty properties will be contacted with tailored guidance and advice
• Forms part of the administration’s wider commitment to tackle empty and neglected sites

Southend-on-Sea City Council has launched a refreshed support programme in one place to help bring more empty homes back into use, delivering on one of the Joint Administration’s key priorities to increase housing supply and improve neighbourhoods across the city.

The programme focuses on working in partnership with owners of long-term empty properties, offering practical guidance and a one-stop place for support to help unblock common issues such as the cost of repairs, uncertainty about next steps, or complex legal matters.

Leaving a property empty for long periods can become increasingly costly for owners. Since April 2024, long‑term empty homes no longer receive a council tax discount, and additional premiums may apply where homes remain unoccupied for extended periods. Engaging early with the council’s support offer can help owners avoid unnecessary charges, access financial guidance, and resolve issues more quickly.

This targeted initiative sits alongside the existing MySouthend reporting routes but focuses specifically on working directly with owners to understand why properties become vacant and how they can be brought back into use.

As part of this work, the council is contacting owners directly with tailored information and a short survey to help the Empty Homes Team understand individual circumstances and offer the right level of support.

The team regularly works with owners to help them navigate common issues such as probate delays, contractor access, or uncertainty about renovation options, providing guidance to help move stalled properties forward.

The council has also proposed additional investment in the service, with funding for a second Empty Homes Officer included in the 2025/26 budget proposals. This forms part of the administration’s wider commitment to tackle empty and neglected sites, including the recently launched “Dirty Dozen” list.

The Dirty Dozen initiative has generated strong public interest, with residents sharing comments and further site suggestions online. This feedback is helping the council better understand community concerns around neglected and problem properties.

Cllr Anne Jones, Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing, said: “Bringing empty homes back into use is a clear priority for this administration. At a time when housing demand is high, we cannot afford to have good-quality homes standing empty for long periods.

“We recognise that many owners face barriers, whether that is the cost of renovation work, legal complexities, or simply not knowing where to start. Our aim is to work with owners, to provide a one-stop shop for practical support and help find the right route forward for each property.

“I encourage all owners contacted by the council to complete the short survey enclosed with their letter. The more we understand about each situation, the better we can support owners to bring these homes back into use for the benefit of the whole city.”

Support available to owners of empty homes

The council’s support offer includes:

• Financial guidance, including eligibility for a VAT reduction from 20% to 5% on certain renovation works, with formal letters available.
• Advice on selling or renting, including licensing requirements, safety standards and links with trusted estate and letting agents.
• Council acquisitions, where suitable, through the authority’s existing acquisitions programme.
• Specialist signposting to legal advisers, contractors, financial experts and genealogists where ownership or probate matters need resolving.

While the focus of the refreshed offer is on collaboration and support, the council does hold statutory powers that may be used where properties become dangerous or persistently neglected. These include improvement notices and, in the most serious cases, compulsory purchase powers. These tools are used only as a last resort, with the priority always being early engagement with owners.

This work complements other measures introduced to discourage properties being left unused. Since 1 April 2024, empty and unfurnished homes no longer receive a council tax discount, replacing the previous 14-day reduction.

Owners of empty properties who receive the council’s letter are encouraged to complete the enclosed survey or contact the Empty Homes Team for advice and support.

Residents can continue to report empty or problem properties through MySouthend. These reports help the council identify priority sites and engage with owners at an earlier stage.

Empty Homes Team: 01702 534559

Email: emptyhomes@southend.gov.uk

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Southend-on-Sea City Council has issued the following statement after Uber informed the council it has chosen to surrender its Private Hire Operator Licence to operate in the city.

Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of Southend-on-Sea City Council, said: "The council always encourages businesses to operate in Southend, and following a formal application from Uber, the Licensing Sub-Committee reached a lawful decision to grant a licence on 15 December 2025.

"Uber has since informed us that it has chosen to surrender its licence. Whilst we remain open to applications from potential private hire operators wishing to work in the city, we are clear that all operators are held to the same fair standards and safeguards – those who choose not to adhere to our conditions will not be operating in Southend."

Cllr Martin Terry, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Regulatory Services, said: "Credit is due to the Licensing Sub-Committee and council officers for their thorough and professional handling of this application.

• Southend-on-Sea City Council’s Cabinet has approved a £90 million partnership with Anglian Water.
• The 10-year programme aims to reduce flooding, eliminate sewer spills, and improve public spaces.
• Projects include ‘dry rain gardens’, smart water storage systems, and the Marine Parade Green Oasis.

Residents will benefit from greener streets, fewer sewer overflows, and more resilient neighbourhoods.

The Council is working with Anglian Water on a 10-year programme to reduce flooding, improve wastewater systems, and create more attractive, biodiverse public spaces. The programme builds on Catchment to Coast, an earlier initiative focused on sustainable water management.

One key project is the Marine Parade Green Oasis. This Levelling Up-funded scheme includes £500,000 from Anglian Water and £800,000 from the Environment Agency. It is currently in the design phase.

The programme also introduces innovative measures, including:

• Dry rain gardens designed by Beth Chatto’s award-winning team to manage surface water naturally.
• Smart water butts that store rainwater and release it later to reduce flooding at key times.
• Rain gardens, detention basins, and other green infrastructure across the city to improve streets and increase biodiversity.

The Advanced Water Industry National Environment Programme (WINEP) is a long-term, 10-year initiative aiming to:

• Eliminate Combined Sewer Outfall (CSO) spills
• Reduce surface water flooding
• Enhance public spaces and increase biodiversity

The Council and Anglian Water are working together because partnership and innovation deliver real benefits for residents. Even in the design phase, projects like the Marine Parade Green Oasis show how collaboration can transform public spaces for everyone.

Cllr Lydia Hyde, Cabinet Member for Climate, Environment and Waste, said: “I am pleased this important programme has been approved by Cabinet, this partnership will help reduce sewer spills, cut flooding, and make our streets greener and cleaner for residents.”

This programme is expected to deliver visible improvements for residents across Southend-on-Sea. Residents will see greener streets, rain gardens on grass verges, and other measures that reduce flooding and enhance biodiversity.

Southend Libraries has received national funding to launch an exciting new three-year project, helping families bring books to life at home.

The new scheme will create creative kits called 'Storysacks' that pair a picture book with a related information book, props, games, and activities, designed for children aged six months to five years, transforming reading into a playful, memorable experience while building on early development skills.

Alongside the new kits, Southend Libraries will run free workshops for parents and carers. These sessions will share storytelling tips, boost confidence, and even guide families in creating their own Storysacks.

Cllr Matt Dent, cabinet member for business, culture, music and tourism, said: "Storysacks are a brilliant way to make reading fun and accessible for all families. By combining books with games and props, they spark children's imaginations and help parents feel confident sharing stories.

"This funding is a real investment in Southend's families and in our children's futures. I encourage parents and carers to visit their local library, explore the Storysacks on offer, and take advantage of this wonderful free resource."

Southend Libraries already offers 55 bespoke Storysacks, originally developed through the A Better Start Southend initiative. The new project will expand this collection and bring workshops and showcase sessions to community venues across the city.

For more information you can email: bookstart@southend.gov.uk or visit theSouthend Libraries website. 

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Part of a national movement to increase awareness and offer an opportunity to talk about death, Death Cafes are group directed discussion groups with no agenda, objectives or themes.

Our Death Café will offer an opportunity to come together and share your experience, over tea, coffee and cake!

Please note this is a discussion group rather than a grief support or counselling session.

There is no need to book, please just come

 Southend residents -    service 29

Southend-on-Sea City Council, in partnership with Arriva, is excited to announce enhancements to bus routes for residents, thanks to the Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP).Arriva Service 29 now includes two additional return evening journeys between Belgrave Road and the City Centre from Monday to Saturday. These enhancements will greatly benefit residents in Westborough, Blenheim Park, and Belfairs wards. Arriva Service 9 will increase its Saturday frequency from every 20 minutes to every 15 minutes between Rayleigh Station and North Shoebury, benefiting residents in Eastwood Park and St Laurence wards.These service enhancements have been made possible by DfT BSIP Phase 2 funding. They follow the recent restoration of the bus route between the City Centre and Garon Park, further strengthening Southend’s bus network.Councillor Paul Collins, cabinet member for finance, assets, and investments, said: “We are delighted to extend the Arriva 9 and 29 bus services, building on the restored City Centre to Garon Park route.“Our Bus Service Improvement Plan and funding support cheaper travel, more  reliable journeys, and increased passenger satisfaction. Enhancing these services aligns with our commitment to improving connectivity and accessibility across Southend-on-Sea. It also encourages more people to travel by bus, reducing car journeys and thereby improving air quality."  

• £8.5 million confirmed for Southend bus services over the next three years
• Provides long-term certainty to plan improvements across the network
• Builds on recent progress such as the 23A/B Service from Leigh-on-Sea Railway Station to London Southend Airport and Airport Business Park route
• The reintroduced 17/17A service to the Highlands Estate and extended late-night services

Southend-on-Sea is set to benefit from £8.5 million in dedicated bus funding over the next three years, helping to improve reliability, provide better connections, and support the city’s growing transport needs for passengers.Southend-on-Sea City Council will receive:

• 2026/27 – £2,796,830
• 2027/28 – £2,833,477
• 2028/29 – £2,870,123

This multi-year allocation allows the council to plan improvements across the network with confidence. It also enables Southend to build on recent successes, including the new 23A/B bus service from Leigh-on-Sea Railway Station to London Southend Airport route and Airport Business Park and the extension of late-night bus services, which are already giving passengers more choice and flexibility when travelling.The funding will complement ongoing work to make services more reliable and easier to use, helping more people access jobs, education, leisure, and essential services across the city.Cllr Paul Collins, Cabinet Member for Finance, Assets and Public Transport, said: “This is very positive news for Southend. With the introduction of the Leigh Station to London Southend Airport service, improvements to local routes, and our recently extended late-night services, we’ve already started to make a real difference for passengers.“We need to reduce the use of car journeys, by supporting new and enhanced bus services, and at the times when people need them.”“This £8.5 million in confirmed, multi-year funding gives us the stability to continue that work, plan ahead, and keep improving the bus network for everyone who relies on it.”The allocation forms part of a wider funding package for the East of England, designed to support local authorities in enhancing and maintaining their bus services.For Southend, it represents a significant opportunity to continue strengthening public transport and ensure services remain accessible, sustainable, linked up and fit for the future.  

  Southend-on-Sea City Council is pleased to confirm a new agreement with Stephensons of Essex to deliver a vital extended bus service for residents living around Highlands Estate and West Leigh areas.The extended service, funded by the Department for Transport’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) Bus Grant and is part of the council’s continued commitment to restoring and enhancing local public transport.Launched 28 July 2025, the extended service 17 and 17A will run hourly on weekdays during the morning and early afternoon, connecting the Highlands Estate and Belfairs Swimming Centre with Leigh and Southend-on-Sea city centre. This marks a significant development for the local community, which has been without a dedicated service for many years.The new routes will provide direct connections to services along London Road, Leigh town centre, and Chalkwell and Westcliff stations for onward travel on c2c services.Cllr Paul Collins, cabinet member for finance, assets, and investments, said: “We’re pleased to bring back a bus service for the Highlands Estate. This new connection will be a lifeline for many residents, improving access to the City Centre and other key destinations. “It’s part of our broader efforts to restore essential services, encourage bus travel, and reduce the number of car journeys, all of which contribute to better air quality and a more sustainable city.”The extended service will start at the Heygate Avenue stop at the Southend Travel Centre and travel past Cliffs Pavilion, Westcliff and Chalkwell stations, Grand Drive and Leigh Broadway. Service 17 will continue past Leigh Station, while the 17A will travel via Hadleigh Road to Belfairs Swimming Centre, before both routes head along Highlands Boulevard to terminate at Woodlands Park.Timetables for the new 17 and 17A services will be available on the Stephensons website and App ahead of the launch.To find out more about Southend-on-Sea’s BSIP, visit: Southend Bus Service Improvement Plan – Southend Bus Service Improvement Plan and Enhanced Partnership – Southend-on-Sea City Council

• Thousands of new public electric vehicle (EV) chargers coming to streets across Southend 
• Installation to start early next year in locations accessible to all communities 
• Project backed by Government funding and major investment from Zest at no cost to the Council 

Southend residents, businesses, and visitors will soon have easier access to electric vehicle (EV) charging, as Southend-on-Sea City Council partners with Zest to install over 3,000 public chargers across the city. The project starts early next year and aims to make cleaner, greener travel easier for everyone. The new network will include a mix of lamp post, fast, and rapid chargers to suit different drivers’ needs. Sites are being chosen to make sure all communities, especially those without off-street parking, can access charging conveniently. The project is one of the largest local EV charging schemes in the UK. It is supported by £1.4 million from the Government’s Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund, along with significant investment from Zest, at no cost to the Council. The new chargers will help reduce carbon emissions and improve local air quality. Councillor Daniel Cowan, Leader of Southend-on-Sea City Council said: "This is a big moment for Southend. By bringing thousands of new EV charging spaces to our streets, we’re making it easier for people to choose cleaner, greener ways to travel. This project is about giving everyone the tools to be part of a sustainable future. We’re proud to work with Zest to deliver real change for our communities." Robin Heap, CEO of Zest, said: “Southend is setting a benchmark for how cities can lead the transition to cleaner transport with their ambitious EV infrastructure deployment plans. The partnership is designed to make EV ownership practical for everyone, especially communities without off-street parking. Such a significant long-term investment requirement reflects true ambition and leadership, ensuring Southend has the infrastructure it needs for an electric future while creating a blueprint for others to follow.” 

Leigh Library Gardens Thursday 25 - Sunday 28 June 2026

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Leigh Folk Arts is a community arts charity  that  has delivered Leigh Folk Festival which had been running over 30 years. Leigh Folk Festival, is held over a weekend in June and has become one of the top events in Southend, attracting between 8-10,000 attendees, and is widely considered the largest free folk festival in the UK.

The festival uses a central festival space, based in Leigh Library Gardens, and other spaces and venues throughout Leigh.  The majority of events are free to enter and we focus on being inclusive, accessible and to deliver for all age ranges, including children, young people and families.

 Classic Cars drive back to the seafront this summer

The much-loved motoring event Classic Cars on the Beach is set to return to Southend's City Beach, bringing heritage, horsepower and nostalgia back to the seafront for 2026.

 Hosted by Southend-on-Sea City Council in partnership with the Southend and District Classic Car Club, the event will showcase a stunning line-up of classic vehicles over 25 years old, parked along City Beach and open for residents and visitors to enjoy.

From beautifully preserved vintage cars to iconic models from the late 20th century, Classic Cars on the Beach offers something for enthusiasts of all ages. Visitors can stroll along the seafront, admire the vehicles up close, chat with owners, and enjoy the wider attractions, food and hospitality Southend has to offer.

Cllr Matt Dent, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture, Music, and Tourism, said: "Classic Cars on the Beach is a wonderful celebration of culture, creativity and our shared motoring heritage, set against the unique backdrop of Southend's seafront.

"Events like this play an important role in attracting visitors, supporting our tourism offer and showcasing Southend as a vibrant and welcoming city."

Saturday 23 - Sunday 31 May 2026

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What better way to enjoy a day at the seaside than with a ride on Southend-on-Sea’s famous open top bus!

The seafront open top buses are operated by Ensign Bus Co. – you’ll find them on Facebook.

The service will start on Saturday 23 May

99 Route: Leigh-on-Sea > Chalkwell > Westcliff  > Southend Pier > Thorpe Bay > Shoeburyness, East Beach

You can enjoy an open top seafront cruise Every 30 minutes: daily Saturday 23 May – Sunday 31 MaySouthend City Jam to return for fifth year as artist applications open

• Southend City Jam returns for year five with live street art across the city centre and seafront, 28 to 30 August 2026.
• Artist applications now open to UK and international creatives for the popular summer festival.
• Proven cultural impact, with 100+ permanent street art walls created across Southend.

Southend City Jam will return from Friday 28 to Sunday 30 August 2026, bringing another vibrant weekend of large-scale street art, live painting and creative activity to Southend city centre and seafront.

Now entering its fifth year, the festival has grown into one of Southend’s standout cultural events, transforming walls and public spaces into a dynamic open-air gallery and attracting thousands of visitors each summer.

With applications now open, the 2026 event will once again see artists from Southend, across the UK and beyond bringing fresh colour and creativity to the city.

Aida Esposito, Director of Culture, Leisure, Music and Tourism at Southend-on-Sea City Council, said: “Southend City Jam has become a hugely important part of our cultural calendar and a real point of pride for the city. Over the last five years it’s helped transform public spaces, attract visitors and celebrate Southend as a place of creativity and culture. We’re delighted to see the festival return in 2026 and would encourage artists from near and far to apply to be part of it.”

Karl Sims and Steve Hart, co-founders of Southend City Jam, said: “What started as an ambitious idea to make Southend a leading destination for urban art has grown into a major celebration of creativity, bringing together a global community of artists over three jam-packed days. We’re thrilled to return for the fifth edition and to open applications for artists who want to help shape this year’s event.”

Southend City Jam has helped establish more than 100 walls as part of Southend’s year-round street art offer, creating a lasting legacy beyond the festival weekend itself.

More information and artist applications can be found at www.southendcityjam.co.uk/apply.    

Leigh Community CentreSaturday, 30 May 202610.00 am to 2.00 pm

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Exciting news! Our upcoming Farmers’ Market is just around the corner!

Join us for a vibrant day celebrating fresh, local, and handmade goodness right in the heart of the community. We’re bringing together an amazing line up of stallholders offering everything from seasonal fruit and veg, artisan baked goods, small-batch preserves, local honey, handmade crafts, organic meats, eggs, flavour packed homemade curries and so much more.

Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll find:

Fresh produce from local growers
Artisan breads & pastries
Local honey
Flowers
Herbal remedies
Handmade bags
Organic meat and eggs
Flavour packed curries

Come support local makers, meet the people behind your food, and enjoy a relaxed day full of great flavours and community spirit.

Priory Park  Friday 24 - Sunday 26 July 2026

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Returning for Chapter Three in 2026 – Lazydays’ first phase line-up announcement includes headliners Tinie Tempah, Feeder, and Sister Sledge featuring original lead singer Kathy Sledge plus special guests The Feeling.

All that alongside Professor Green, The Pigeon Detectives, Heather Small, We Are Scientists, and Tunde the voice of The Lighthouse Family.

Recently added: Leigh-Anne, Natalie Imbruglia, The Enemy, Brand New Heavies, Nathan Dawe, The Subways, The Bluetones and DJ Yoda.

Expect a spectacular weekend bursting with:

A community you keep coming back for Southend’s biggest cultural weekend
Headliners to hidden gems, we’ve got it all
Proudly independent beers, spirits and wine
Dazzling special effects and decor
Unforgettable memories + good vibes
Banging local street food
Full of fun, for kids and adults alike (11 and under go free!)
Captivating street theatre, comedy and demos

This is… No Ordinary Weekend!

ALSO PLAYING: Fun Lovin’ Criminals and Artful Dodger are the first names announced headlining a new 1,000 capacity tent, alongside So Solid Crew’s Romeo and Lisa Maffia, Beans on Toast, DJ Format, Beatles Dub Club and Atomic Brass, with further additions planned.

Other names to feature include Woody Cook (son of Fatboy Slim), Prima Queen, Abi Flynn, The Allergies, Pastel, Stone Jets, plus rising talent and festival favourites, including Ellie Sax, Smoove and Turrell, Kara Marni, Dubinski, Nuala and Konnected DJs, Bilk, Bleach Lab and Good Health Good Wealth.

A brand new third venue is also on the way, programmed alongside Essex promoters and grassroots venues to give emerging talent a platform and a proper festival moment.

Shoebury East BeachSunday, 14 June 2026

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Lace Up and Celebrate 30 Years of the Southend Half Marathon

Havens Hospices’ Southend Half Marathon event returns to the seafront this summer, marking three decades of the city’s premier running event.

Registration is now open for the race which will be taking place on Sunday 14th June. After selling out for the past two consecutive years, organisers are urging the community to sign up early to avoid disappointment.

The 13.1-mile course starts and finishes at East Beach, Shoeburyness, offering a fast, flat and traffic-free route along the scenic Thames Estuary coastline – perfect for both first-time half-marathoners and seasoned runners chasing personal bests.

The Southend Half Marathon is a flagship fundraiser for Havens Hospices, which includes Fair Havens and Little Havens, raising an extraordinary £1.6 million for the Essex-based charity over the past three decades. This vital funding has had a direct impact on thousands of families across the community who rely on the hospices’ support during the most difficult moments of their lives.

The local charity, which must raise more than £208,000 each week, provides free specialist care for children, young people and adults living with incurable conditions, helping them to make the most of every day.

This year, runners can make an even greater impact by selecting the ‘Havens Hero’ ticket option. For an additional £16 donation on top of the standard entry fee, participants can cover the cost of half an hour of essential care at the hospices

We are urging drivers to stay vigilant after scams continue to occur involving fraudulent QR codes being placed on parking signage and fraudulent text messages claiming to be about PCNs.

Criminals have placed fake QR codes on our parking signage. The council is acting swiftly to remove these and would like to remind residents, businesses and visitors that QR codes are no longer used on any of our parking machines, signage, or pay‑by‑phone parking systems in the city.

We are also aware that some customers have received fake text messages claiming to be about PCNs, often including a link to “pay” via GOV.UK.

Please be aware:

• these messages are a scam - we will never send text messages about PCNs, and GOV.UK will never contact you regarding parking penalties
• genuine PCNs are only issued as a physical ticket on your vehicle or as a letter sent to the registered keeper
• if you receive one of these texts, do not click any links, do not provide payment details, and delete the message immediately

To stay informed about fraud and cybercrime threats, you can sign up for our monthly fraud alerts enewsletter.

• mobile breast screening unit moves from Warrior Square to Southend Civic Centre to improve accessibility and user experience 
• nearly 4 in 10 eligible women in Thurrock and Southend do not attend their vital breast screening appointments 
• local insights show uncertainty and lack of information are major barriers; the new location and outreach aim to remove these hurdles 

Southend-on-Sea City Council has relocated the city’s mobile breast screening unit from Warrior Square to the Civic Centre on Victoria Avenue, in partnership with the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust - Southend University Hospital Breast Screening Service.

The move will improve accessibility and privacy. Relocating to the Civic Centre ensures a central, well-lit, managed environment, with easier transport links and improved visibility for the service.  

Cllr Maxine Sadza, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Healthier Communities, said: “For many women, especially those coming for the very first time, breast screening can feel daunting. I want every woman in Southend to know that you won’t be rushed, you won’t be judged, and you won’t be alone; our clinicians are warm, gentle and absolutely committed to your comfort.  

“We moved the mobile unit to the Civic Centre because women told us they wanted somewhere that felt more welcoming and accessible. This new location is brighter, calmer and more convenient. It’s a place where you can take a breath, walk in and take an important step for your future health.  

“With nearly 40% of eligible women in Southend still missing their appointments, my heartfelt message is this: if this is your first screening invitation, please don’t put it off. Your health is worth that short moment of your time.”  

Why this move matters 

Nearly 4 in 10 eligible women in Thurrock and Southend do not attend their vital breast screening appointments, meaning early signs may be missed. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer in the UK, but screening can detect early changes before symptoms develop, dramatically improving the chances of successful treatment.  

Dr Elizabeth Towers, Macmillan GP and Mid and South Essex System Clinical Lead for Cancer, said: “We welcome the relocation of the mobile breast screening unit to a more accessible location, making it easier for women to attend their screening appointments.  

“Breast screening saves lives by detecting cancer early, often before any symptoms appear. Attending your screening appointment when invited is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health. Early detection provides more treatment options and significantly improves outcomes.  

“We understand that some women may feel anxious about screening, and we want to reassure our community that appointments are quick, private and provided by experienced clinicians who are committed to delivering respectful, compassionate care in a supportive environment.”  

Recent data from Southend-on-Sea City Council’s "Southend Breast Cancer Screening Insights Report (2024)" shows that: 

• convenience, privacy and a calm environment were among the most important factors influencing attendance  
• most women who attended described clinicians as reassuring, gentle, clear and supportive  
• awareness is high (97% understand the benefits), but knowledge of the screening procedure itself is low, particularly among ethnic minority women  
• pain and embarrassment fears disproportionately affect first-timers  
• younger women were more likely to feel nervous or unsure what to expect  
• lack of a clear recommendation (especially from a GP) was the number one reason women gave for not attending  
• most women said texts or emails made attendance more likely  

The new Civic Centre location directly addresses some of these barriers by offering a more predictable, comfortable and welcoming environment, designed to reduce anxiety for those attending for the very first time.  

Who is eligible and how to book 

Now is the ideal time to act.   

Women aged 50 to 70 registered as female with their GP are invited for breast screening in geographical patches (based on their postcode) every three years. Women over 71 can self-refer for an appointment.   

The next screening round for Southend runs from 2 February to 31 December 2026, with some weekend clinics continuing where possible due to their popularity during recent trials. The upcoming February phase will focus on first-time screeners in the Shoebury area from February to May, followed by Westcliff from June to December.  

To book, change or discuss your screening, you can call the South Essex (Southend) Breast Screening Service on 03004435422. All women are strongly encouraged to attend or reschedule to a suitable time.  

For general information about what to expect at your breast screening appointment and to watch a video demystifying the screening process, visit Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System. 

For media enquiries about this press release, please contact media@southend.gov.uk.

• Young bookworms wanted! Southend Libraries launches citywide children’s reading challenge

But it’s not only children who are being encouraged to read in 2026.  

The UK-wide campaign National Year of Reading 2026 “Go All In” by the Department of Education (DfE) wants to inspire the nation—young and old—to go all in on their passions through reading. Sports, music, architecture, cooking, dancing, diving… whatever makes your heart flutter, if you’re into it, read into it!  

When we say “read,” there is no wrong way to do it: Go online, listen in, or turn the page. Our inclusive and accessible library shelves and digital collections are stocked with e-books, newspapers, magazines, maps, archive materials, audiobooks and printed books. Southend Libraries have it all. 

Though the campaign is for everyone to celebrate and benefit from reading, three specific target audiences have been defined by DfE as parents of children under five (early years), boys aged 10-16, and families from disadvantaged communities. 

There’s more to come soon 

Southend Libraries is planning a magical line-up of fairy tale activities, to be announced soon and launched during February half-term week (16 to 21 February). Keep your eyes and ears peeled on our social media channels and websites for more updates. 

For further information about the National Year of Reading, please visit: Go All In website. 

£90m partnership to tackle flooding and wastewater using smart technology and dry gardens

Southend-on-Sea City Council is working with Anglian Water on a £90 million programme to tackle flooding, improve wastewater systems, and create greener public spaces across the city.📷The Advanced Water Industry National Environment Programme (WINEP) is a 10-year initiative aiming to:

• eliminate Combined Sewer Outfall spills
• reduce surface water flooding
• enhance public spaces and increase biodiversity

Residents will see tangible improvements to streets and neighbourhoods, with rain gardens installed across the city. These will be designed with Beth Chatto's award-winning team, maximising plantlife and be cheaper to maintain the dry gardens.One highlight is the Marine Parade Green Oasis, a Levelling Up-funded scheme with £500,000 from Anglian Water and £800,000 from the Environment Agency. It's currently in the design phase and will form part of the wider programme.Another innovative scheme is the use of 'smart water butts' that, subject to planning conditions, can store and hold large volumes of rainwater and then release them at a later point, to reduce surface flooding at key times.Cllr Lydia Hyde, Cabinet Member for Climate, Environment and Waste, said: "If approved by cabinet, our partnership with Anglian Water will focus on eliminating combined sewer overflow spills, reducing surface water flooding and improving water quality, while also enhancing public spaces and boosting biodiversity across Southend."Our residents care deeply about protecting our coastline, and this partnership shows that we're acting on their concerns by investing in real, practical measures to reduce sewage releases, delivering action for our residents, not just words."Projects like the Marine Parade 'Green Oasis' demonstrate how this partnership works in practice. Anglian Water has contributed funding to help deliver these improvements, and while the scheme is still in the design phase, it's an exciting example of how we can transform public spaces for the benefit of everyone."Across the city, similar initiatives, including rain gardens on grass verges and other green infrastructure, will help manage surface water sustainably and make our neighbourhoods cleaner, greener and more resilient, as well as more attractive places to live, building on our Civic Pride." 

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