Basildon is hoping to inject a touch of Hollywood magic after unveiling its new sign in the style of Tinseltown.

The new "BASILDON" sign has been unveiled at the side of the A127.

Each letter is five feet tall while the US counterpart boasts letters of about 45 feet in height.

The lights which will illuminate the sign at night are yet to be fitted.

The sign is part of a £400,000 project commissioned by Basildon Council to boost the local economy.

A council spokesman said the project is almost finished and the money came from the Thames Gateway programme.

He said the cash will also be used to create new road signs, roadside lighting and entrance signs to the district.