KEEN tourists have been ringing hotels and bed and breakfasts in Southend as early as 6.45am to book their holidays, as venues remain packed into the autumn.

Tills are ringing this summer as the staycation boom on our seafront is in full swing, post-lockdown.

Bosses at venues across the town say they are seeing new customers trying to book rooms for their holiday in the UK this year.

Hotels have reported an increase in tourists booking stays from four to seven nights. Traditionally, people visit Southend for a weekend away.

READ MORE:

This comes as Southend Council and the Southend Tourism Partnership are looking to extend the summer season for “as long as possible” by holding events.

Emma Bearman, owner of the Moorings B&B, on Eastern Esplanade, said: “We’ve been fully booked from May, and right through to October.

“It’s been really nice to have new customers ringing us.

“Everyone trying to book with us are visitors, which is different for us.

“We often get workers coming here to stay.

“People rang us as early as quarter to seven the other day. Unfortunately we had to turn them away but it shows how busy we are.”

The Echo revealed plans for a Mexican style Day of the Dead parade for Halloween along the seafront, alongside proposals to bring back the fireworks with a bang.

The plans could see ten displays to run from October 2 to December 4.

Jacqui Dallimore, managing director of the Roslin Hotel, said: “The hotel is full for most of the summer and the autumn bookings are looking very strong too.

“The restaurant is continuing to flourish with our new outdoor veranda proving popular “The spa is equally full most days.

“I think everyone wants to get back to normality as soon as possible and are treating themselves where they can.

“We have also seen a large rise in the number of four to seven night bookings.”

Due to Covid travel restrictions, a staycation boom was predicted.

Carole Mulroney, councillor in charge of tourism, culture, environment, and planning, said: “We’re trying to extend the summer season for as long as possible.

“Hence the arts festival next month, the Halloween parade, and the fireworks.

“People are still coming to the town and the seafront despite the weather.”