An iconic sign from the mid-1990’s is back on display at Clacton Pier.
The sign, which was put up by the attraction’s previous owners was removed in 2017, in preparation for the multi-million pound east side development.
It was replaced by a digital screen and lettering in keeping with the major project and was carefully stored away in the Jolly Roger along with other items of historical interest.
Now it has been cleaned and put up on a new maintenance and office building – also on the east side – where it can be seen by visitors.
Nigel Brown, Clacton Pier’s communications manager, said there had been disappointment and comments made when the sign put up by the Harrison family was removed.
“It was always our intention to look after it and find a place to display it but it simply did not fit with the image we were looking to portray at the entrance,” he added.
“However, it is part of our history and now has pride of place on a nautical themed structure which houses workshops for our maintenance team including engineers, painters, carpenters and electricians.
“Bringing all these trades together will improve efficiency and keep the pier and its rides running smoothly.”
The maintenance team are now preparing for a busy programme of works around the attraction with the rides closing on November 9.
Among the jobs to be undertaken is the completion of a major makeover for the pier’s oldest ride which was dismantled at the end of 2024 .
The Helter Skelter, which was built in 1949 by English specialist firm Supercar, was due to return last summer but the scheme proved more extensive than originally anticipated.
“As with many attractions of its age you find that more work needs to be carried out than you expect,” said Mr Brown.
“The more the team got into the job, the longer the list of work became. Due to economies of scale and wanting to get it to the high standard desired, the repairs and refurbishment have been delayed.
“Although the bottom section of the 50ft Helter Skelter went up in the summer, that has now been taken down for the winter and the full structure will return in spring next year.”
This weekend the pier’s Halloween festival gets underway and runs from Saturday through to November 2, 11am to 5pm, daily.
Full details can be found at www.clactonpier.co.uk
