The Fun Fair is returning to Chalkwell Park and organisers promise it will be bigger and better than ever this year.

The fair has been running for more than 80 years but the Carnival Association cancelled it last year.

This year, it is returning as The Southend Mencap Music Man Project Fun Fair. It is supported by charity organisation, Southend Mencap, which assists people living with a learning disability. 

Don Drake, owner of Don Drake’s Fair, has been organising the fair for more than 40 years at Chalkwell Park. He says he was very disappointed by last year’s cancellation but is delighted it is returning.

He said: “The Carnival Association last year told me they didn’t want to do it anymore. So I got together with Southend Mencap to plan for this year.”

This year the proceeds will go to the charity’s Music Man project, which supports musical learning.

Mr Drake added: “We put in an application to Southend Council to get their approval to run the fair in Chalkwell Park.

“It’s all thanks to Sir David Amess who supported us.”

Sir David, Southend West MP, is very pleased to see the carnival fair return.

He said: “I am absolutely delighted that Don Drake’s Fair is returning to Chalkwell Park.

“For many years it has been a feature of our summer celebrations. Many youngsters and families have looked forward to its arrival in Chalkwell Park.

“Unfortunately, in recent years the fair has been struck by poor weather which has affected its viability in terms of its relationship with Southend Carnival. I am so pleased that, in spite of having many hurdles to overcome, the traditional fair is returning to Chalkwell Park.”

Mayor of Southend Fay Evans, who will also be at the opening, added: “It’s an event that the whole community looks forward to and hopefully the weather is kind to us. It’s a real joy to see everyone enjoying themselves.”

Sir David and councillor Evans will be at the opening tomorrow.

Marc McOwens, general manager of Southend Mencap, said the organisation looks forward to co-hosting the fair with Mr Drake.

He said: “It’s a good opportunity to raise awareness about our organisation. We’re looking forward to making the fair better and more exciting.”

The Southend Mencap Music Man Project Fun Fair will run from tomorrow to Saturday, August 19 from 2pm to 10pm with plenty on offer to keep families entertained for its duration.