A CANVEY fun park has been named as one of the top ten favourite places for island day trips and holiday breaks.

Leisure Island, Eastern Esplanade, Canvey has appeared in the list by Chris Leadbeater, travel writer from The Telegraph.

The fun park has rides and fairground style attractions.

Scott Petty, 50, manager at the park said he is so proud his business has been recognised.

He said: “We were contacted a few days ago asking for pictures for the list. When I got an e-mail saying we had been mentioned I thought it was a wind up but it is more than just a mention.

“We are pleased as it means people are talking about Canvey seafront.

“I think the article is good for the seafront and will help to bring more people to the seafront.

“It is good to get some recognition for all our hard work. I think we offer good value for money, we have ride wrist bands for £5 and cheap parking for visitors.

“We have seen a boost in trade as the seafront has become more popular in recent times.

“When it is hot people come to the seaside but in the last few weeks it has been too hot. People have been going straight to the beach and some have been staying indoors.

The article states: “Essex adds a contribution to the isles of this realm in the seven square miles, 18 sq km, of Canvey.

“The Romans once built a road here, but they were two millennia early for a day at Leisure Island Fun Park, with its teacups ride, go-karts and dodgems Honestly, Vespasian – I said there was no rush.”

Barry Campagna, Canvey town mayor and beach volunteer also praised the fun park manager for his work.

He said: “He has worked extremely hard and has put in a lot of effort in to the park.

“He offers a very fair price for the ride tickets and parking.

“Other places such as Southend are much more expensive.

“He is a great guy and he wants the best for Canvey.

Hopefully he will continue to progress in the future.

“I think all the seafront traders have done well but Scott Petty has done extremely well.”

“He has captured the market of families.

“I think he deserves all the success.”

The island’s seafront has boomed in popularity following work from beach groups including Friends of Concord Beach and Canvey Bay Watch.