THOUSANDS turned out to make the relaunched Shoebury Fair – back after an absence of seven years – a huge success.

A packed programme of activities, stalls and events made sure no one noticed the slightly gloomy weather, at Shoeburyness High School’s sports field.

The highlight was an S Factor talent competition, judged by 2005 X Factor quarter-finalist Chico and local children’s author Claire Freedman.

With more than 60 youngsters auditioning for a place in the finals in the weeks before the fair, competition was fierce.

The eventual winner of the £100 prize and a free recording session at the soon-to-be-built Shoeburyness Youth Centre’s studio, went to singer Aaron Broadhead.

Aaron, 17, of Saxon Gardens, Shoebury, won, singing Kiss the Air by Scott Alan.

He said: “I was really pleased to win. I thought I had a chance, but I wasn’t sure. I’m going to spend the money on a trip to London to see the musical, Hairspray.”

Second place and £50 went to multi-instrumentalist Chris Holly for his impressive skills on the keyboard, saxophone and trumpet.

Jamie Lee Harris was third with his street dancing act.

All three are Shoeburyness High pupils.

Karen Stock, who organised the fair, said about 3,000 people turned up on the day.

She added: “It was a fantastic day and I’m very pleased with the event as a whole, especially considering its the first time its been held for seven years.”

Other activities included a best pet and fancy dress competition, a baby competition, a visit from Essex Air Ambulance, a nail bar, book stalls and a police self-defence demonstration.

Southend councillor Pat Rayner judged the baby competition, which had 42 entrants.

The winner was six-month-old Emma Brown, from Southend.

Ms Rayner said: “We could have done with a spot more sunshine, but it didn’t stop people coming. It was a great day.”

Barbecues, a hog roast, and sweet treats were also available, while several charities and organisations, including Southend Fostering service, children's services, and Disability Essex Healthy Chance had stands.