Jurassic half term got off to a roaring and explosive start at Clacton Pier.
Thousands of families packed onto the seaside attraction across the three-day Whitsun Bank Holiday and there is more fun to come.
The main attractions were three 8ft tall life-size dinosaurs who made regular appearances throughout the day and thrilled fans both young and old.
Tiny the Tyrannosaurus, Angie the Ankylosaurus and Loki the Velociraptor roamed the pier and posed for photos. They were joined by a baby Brontosaurus for those who preferred something a little less imposing.
Sunday provided the attraction’s first day-time pyrotechnic show at 5pm with zero debris fireworks from the roof at the entrance and it was followed by the usual main display after dark at the end of the site.
Nigel Brown, the pier’s communications manager, said that despite indifferent weather there was an excellent turnout.
“We started off with rain on Saturday and although it was pretty windy over the whole weekend the sun did come out and warm things up on Sunday and Monday,” he added.
“The day-time fireworks were a bit of a trial and went extremely well. We will look to see if we can include those at future events.
“We really have to thank Experiences Group for bringing the stars along from Tamworth and all three dinosaurs were well-behaved. Our collaboration with this company grows and they are award-winning experts in their field.”
There was also free live music outside the Boardwalk over the weekend as well as other attractions available.
“It was great to see so many people enjoying themselves and the atmosphere was really buzzing as people made the most of the break,” said Mr Brown.
The dinosaurs will continue to make daily appearances over the whole half term and will be on site through until – and including – June 1. Rides will also be operating all week.
Jurassic half term is being staged to celebrate the second anniversary of Jurassic Pier.
The interactive walk-through experience leading into a 4D cinema which includes motion seating, audio visual sound and lighting system with 3D glasses and water squirters was first unveiled at Whitsun 2023.
The pier’s next free fireworks display will be on Saturday July 26 to kick-off the school summer holidays.
PHOTOS BY KEVIN JAY AND NIGEL BROWN
