Thousands flocked to Southend yesterday afternoon for a Saturday in the sun as lockdown restrictions eased.

The seafront, high street and the town's beer gardens were packed with visitors, making the most of outdoor hospitality and the shops re-opening.

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High Street

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Beach

With this only the second weekend since the next step in Boris Johnson's roadmap out of lockdown took place, families were keen to get back to their favourite stores, have a drink and bite to eat, and enjoy Southend's most popular attractions.

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Adventure Island

Adventure Island was full to the brim with parents, children and thrillseekers keen to get back on the rides and have fun.

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McDonald's

While plenty were queuing for Primark, Greggs and McDonald's.

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Primark 

Market stalls were flourishing throughout the high street, with clothes, food and more on offer for shoppers.

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Market

Traders were also excited to get back to it, welcoming both old and new faces to their pubs, outdoor dining areas and tea gardens.

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The Royal Hotel

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The Borough Hotel

Nicola Tiney, who runs the Borough Hotel, in Marine Parade, said: "It was quite busy, but we were expecting it with it being a nice day and the sun shining.

"It was so nice to see people enjoying themselves again. Of course it's still not the old normal given the fact you have to wear face masks and customers aren't allowed inside the pub, but it's definitely a step forward."

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Nicola Tiney

Bosses at Gleneagles Guesthouse also enjoyed welcoming customers back to their business on Clifftown Parade.

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Penny and Garry Lowen, owners of The Gleneagles Guesthouse

While families were able to once again enjoy a trip down Southend Pier and on the Ensign open-top buses along the seafront.

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Southend Pier

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Driver Alan Andrews