Families flocked to the seafront to watch Clacton Pier’s first free
fireworks extravaganza of 2021.
The colourful display was all part of a busy bumper bank holiday of fun
which also included live music and a new pop-up ride featuring a Formula One
simulator.
All indoor and outdoor attractions were in operation and people flocked
to the iconic seaside landmark as the sun shone throughout the three days.
Pier director Billy Ball said it was great to see families back in
numbers and having a great time on the 6.5 acre site.
“Clacton was buzzing and at last, we had a proper bank holiday with fine
weather, everything was back open, and we were able to put on one of our
popular free fireworks extravaganzas,” he said.
“Finally, we are truly back in business and can only hope that it stays
that way and there are no further setbacks due to Covid.
“After a difficult year or so the optimism is returning, and we can see
the light at the end of the tunnel. There were lots of smiling faces and
families were able to make the most of the break together.”
Mr Ball said that while some watched the fireworks from the Pier itself,
many more spread out along the top and lower promenades with plenty of space to
safely enjoy the display without crowding together.
The Mercedes Benz F1 simulator proved a big draw and will remain at the
front of the Pier through until June 6.
“It was also fantastic to see the return of live music over the weekend
to entertain those sitting in the sun outside the Boardwalk Bar and Grill,” added
Mr Ball.
“It felt like we were almost back to normal, and it was as near as we
can get to it under the current guidelines. Hopefully, all restrictions can be
lifted on June 21 but that will all depend on the data for that to happen.”
With the forecast set fair for most of the school half term Mr Ball
hoped to continue to pull in the visitors and make up for some of the lost
trade in recent months.
This year is the Pier’s 150th birthday and plans are in place
for to have a new Looping Star roller coaster ready for the summer holidays in
July along with seven more firework displays and other attractions to be
announced.
Ends
PHOTO by KEVIN JAY
