SOUTHEND has enjoyed a record number of school trips over the last year, new stats have revealed.

More than 20,000 children on school outings have visited the town by train in that time, according to c2c figures.

It follows information from booking app Trainline which also revealed the number of young people using the service to visit Southend has increased by 210 per cent.

Clare McCaffrey, c2c commercial director, said: “We’ve always known how attractive a great day out in Southend is, and this research shows that thousands of people think the same.

“Throughout the summer families are leaving the car at home and using c2c to enjoy their free time and spend their hard-earned cash in Southend, which gives them a great day out and helps to support the local economy.”

The Trainline’s figures showed Southend had come top in the country’s list, beating Margate, Birmingham, Manchester, the New Forest and St Ives in Cornwall.

The next destination, closest to Southend’s rise, was Margate, which experienced a 164 per cent increase.

After a summer which has seen record breaking temperatures, residents in Southend are happy to see the town’s popularity increasing.

Michael Spencer, 41, of Hamstel Road, said: “I came to Southend because of everything it has offer; the beach, its history and all the sites.

“Tourism’s a big part of this town, and Southend can offer so much to children and adults.

“It’s great so many people are coming here to enjoy their summer holidays.”

One of Southend’s biggest attractions listed as part of the figures from The Trainline was the pier and its museum, which were described as “hidden gems”.

Over the bank holiday weekend, c2c also offered discounts to rail passengers from Southend.

Offers included 25 per cent discounts on Adventure Island and Roslin Beach Hotel.