CROWDS of revellers are expected to turn out for a day of music and fireworks in Southend this Saturday, when the launch of the annual seafront display adds some extra spark and bang to the much-loved Purple Festival.

The festival, which will see 20 live bands and acts perform across two stages on Pier Hill and City Beach, takes place this Saturday from 3pm until 9pm.

It is held every year to celebrate the fact the town has been awarded a Purple Flag - a national accolade recognising the South Essex town’s lively and safe night-time economy.

The fireworks - which promise to be the biggest display yet - will interrupt the musical programme from 7:30pm until 7:45pm, and then continue every week until November 18, at the same time from City Beach.

Bands include: (Pier Hill Stage) - Rollin Machine, For we are many, Pure DC, Minerva Falls, Queensburys, Velvet Tree , Waterfalls, the Trusted; (City Beach Stage) - Bloom, Southchurch, Killatrix, Longy, the Long Run, Maxibrites and Slim Pickings.

The whole event is free and is funded by Southend BID (Southend Business Improvement District).