With the summer holidays quickly approaching, we've put together some events for families to keep youngsters entertained. 

Please add your own events in the comments section at the bottom... 

SATURDAY, JULY 19

MULBERRY MUD RUN

Thorpe Bay Beach From 10am.

Watch the runners and walkers getting filthy as they race out to the wartime structure in the estuary and back to raise money for Havens Hospices.

MONDAY, JULY 21

A SQUEEZE AND A SQUASH-THEMED FUN AFTERNOON

Blenheim Children’s Centre, School Way, Leigh.

1pm-3pm.

A £2 donation is requested for admission to an event filled with games and activities.

THURSDAY, JULY 24

COOKING ON A BUDGET

Blenheim Children’s Centre, School Way, Leigh.

10am-noon.

A practical cooking session for parents and children over seven, with a creche for younger children.

FRIDAY, JULY 25

POOL ACTIVITY SESSIONS

Blenheim Children’s Centre, School Way, Leigh.

2pm-3pm and 3pm-4pm.

Fun sessions for children aged five-plus, designed to improve water confidence.

Adults must remain at the poolside. A £2 donation is requested.

SATURDAY, JULY 26

SOUTHEND RELAY FOR LIFE AND ICE CREAM WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT

Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre, Garon Park, Eastern Avenue. From 11.45pm.

A charity run, plus a festival of free local talent, from cheerleaders to illusionists, in aid of Cancer Research UK and Southend Hospital’s Cancer Unit.

Expect stalls, inflatables, live entertainment and the chance to take part in a free Rossi Ice Cream eating world record attempt at 1pm. For details about the 24-hour Relay for Life, visit relay.cancerresearchuk.org

SALVATION ARMY FAMILY FUN DAY

Leigh Library Gardens, Broadway West, Leigh.

11am-4pm. £1 Fun day on a maritime theme, with treats and prizes for children who come dressed as pirates, a bouncy pirate ship, an obstacle course, large soft play toys, messy play, a treasure hunt and many other attractions.

In aid of the Salvation Army’s annual appeal

ST.AIDAN’S SUMMER FETE

The Fairway, Leigh.

11am-3pm Local charities will have their own stalls at the family day, which will include craft stalls, music, a barbecue, games and children’s activities.

JULY 29 AND 30

MINIBEAST HUNT

RSPB Rainham Marshes, New Tank Hill Road, Purfleet. 1pm-2pm.

A chance to explore the nature reserve and get close to the amazing wildlife, including butterflies, dragonflies, bees, birds, water voles and marsh frogs.

The reserve has hides offering great views of the wildlife, plus paths, boardwalks, an adventure play area and a cafe.

Admission is £1 per child – accompanying adults free.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 3

BIG FAMILY FUN DAY

Southend Rugby Club, Warners Bridge Park, Sumpters Way, Southend.

1pm-5pm.

Event offers live bands, craft stalls, a barbecue, bouncy castles, dance acts and family games. Admission is £2, adults, £1 children, £5 for a family of four. In aid of the Alzheimer’s Society.

AUGUST 5, 12, 19 & 26

ACTIVE ADVENTURE SUMMER HOLIDAY FUN TUESDAYS

RSPB Rainham Marshes, New Tank Hill Road, Purfleet. 11am-noon.

Something different every week for the over-fives, including a scavenger hunt, orienteering and exploring off the beaten track. £1 a child – accompanying adults free.

AUGUST 6, 13, 20 & 27

MUD PIE MAYHEM WEDNESDAYS

RSPB Rainham Marshes, New Tank Hill Road, Purfleet Fun for the under-fives with messy, natural materials. A chance to make mud pies and mix magical potions with natural ingredients. £1 a child – accompanying adults free.

For details of Southend and Basildon council events, visit southend.gov.uk and basildon.gov.uk