IT’S four years since the nation voted to implement Brexit and leave the European Union, but it came 41 years after south Essex protesters took to the streets ahead of another referendum.

The nation was asked to decide whether they wanted the country to stay in the common market, which later became the EU.

The United Kingdom had joined in 1973, two years before the vote.

While some were optimistic as to the benefits of the common market, others fought furiously to leave.

Echo:

Taking to the Thames Estuary - many fishermen were opposed to the common market and voiced their frustrations in a 1971 protest

Many fishermen were opposed to the common market and took their protests onto the Thames Estuary.

But many south Essex residents were excited at the prospect of joining together with the rest of Europe.

Echo:

The votes are in - the final boxes of ballots arrive at the Southend count in June 2016

Although it was decided that the UK would remain in the common market, Essex voted in favour of Brexit in 2016.

Scroll down to see more eye-catching pictures.

Echo:

Showing their displeasure - common market protesters made sure their voices were heard and wielded placards across south Essex in the 1970s

Echo:

Wanting out - Sir David Amess, MP for Southend West, supported the Leave campaign during the EU referendum, which led to Brexit, in June 2016

Echo:

The vote - Morag Colgan sitting amongst the ballot boxes at Southend Civic Centre in 1975

Echo:

All smiles - William Hague and former Referendum Party candidate Hugh Maulkin with Castle Point MP Rebecca Harris

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Echo:

Prepared to have his say - David Johnston, with son Craig, receiving his polling card at St Thomas More School in Westcliff

Echo:

Strong statement - fishermen decorated their boats with placards and hard-hitting messages during the common market protest of 1971

Echo:

Having their say - voters walk away after casting their ballot at a Leigh polling station on June 23, 2016

Echo:

Checking the ballot papers - this is what sorting through the votes in the Basildon council chambers looked like back in 1975