June 14, 2021

Families rolled up in their droves to take a spin on Clacton Pier’s new observation wheel.

A wide range of ages made the most of the 33 metre high ride across the weekend which was a bumper one for the attraction.

Work started on putting up the wheel last Tuesday and it was completed within three days by the Elegant Wheel Company.

It went through its final checks and tests on Friday and was ready for customers on Saturday morning.

The Masters family from Southend were the first to take to the skies and they hailed it as a resounding success.

“It was amazing up there and a brilliant experience,” said Mr Masters who took his daughter and two grandchildren on the ride.

Pier Director Billy Ball said he was delighted with the feedback which had been very positive.

“There were young children right up to great grandparents and it was great to see them having fun in the sun on the Clacton Pier Wheel Experience,” he said.

“We really want this to be an attraction that the whole community can enjoy and for the rest of June from Monday to Friday customers will be allowed on there for £1.50 (a penny for every year the pier and the town have been existence), rather than the full price of £3.

“If there is a group of six – no more than four adults – they can have a car for £5, again half price during that period.”

Mr Ball added that all NHS staff will be able to have a free ride on the wheel for the rest of June on production of their NHS card.

“This is a small thank you to them for the incredible sacrifice they have made for all of us over the past year or so,” he said.

“Our wheel provides fantastic views of the coastline, countryside and neighbouring towns and we want as many people as possible to have the chance to make the most of our latest offering.”

The track for the new Looping Star roller coaster is complete on the west ride deck and it is aimed to have the ride operating in time for the school summer holidays.

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