MUSIC lovers and fans braved the chilly weather for a festival atmosphere.

Southend’s annual Purple Festival was a big hit with families, and revellers alike as they stood in crowds watching the live bands take to the stage with various songs and musical hits.

Some music fanatics even dressed up with colourful wigs and fancy make up.

The event was held on Southend’s famous seafront for the fourth year in a row.

Southend has been awarded the Purple Flag accolade to recognise the town’s lively and safe night-time economy.

To celebrate, the Southend Business Improvement District held the Purple Festival which was made up of an afternoon and evening of free music and fireworks.

The fun was organised by Southend Business Improvement Bid and in partnership with Glyn Morgan, co-owner of seafront venue Chinnery’s,

There was plenty of fun to be had during the event and the crowds were treated to various performances throughout the day.

The event featured 15 bands on two outdoor stages at Pier Hill and City Beach, Marine Parade and provided six hours of live music.

Music lovers also checked out a variety of exciting up-and-comers and veteran rockers playing at other venues around Southend High Street and seafront.