The fun is back at Clacton Pier – thanks for all your support!
That’s the message from bosses at the iconic seaside attraction who are
delighted to have outdoor areas operating again after the third lockdown.
Families made a steady return to the 6.5acre site during the week and
were back in their droves at the weekend.
The sun shone and attendances were better than expected for the time of
the year, considering that Tendring children had returned to school after the
Easter break.
Pier director Billy Ball said it had been a long winter but seeing
everyone enjoying themselves again was a huge boost for the business.
“Obviously, we were hoping that the visitors would return in numbers, but
you never know how it will go,” he said.
“We would normally only have the rides open on Saturday and Sunday at
this time, but we took the gamble of operating them through the week and it
paid off.
“Schools in London were still off, as were others in the region. Families
decided to make the most of the fine weather and we were really pleased to be
able to welcome them.
“I think people were just glad to have a bit of freedom and normality
back in their lives.”
Mr Ball said Covid measures were in places with sanitising stations and
regular cleaning taking place.
“It was strange not to have the amusements, soft play, adventure golf
and dodgems open but those are the rules as they stand,” he added.
“The next phase of the roadmap will be to bring those other attractions
back online from May 17 – provided nothing changes.”
Anglers were welcomed back to the end of the Pier and the Boardwalk Bar
and Grill was also serving customers at outside tables.
Mr Ball said that the rides will continue to operate from 12noon to 6pm
on weekdays and from 11am to 6pm at weekends for the time being.
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