SOUTHEND Pier has enjoyed a record-breaking start to 2022 amid high hopes the attraction will have its best ever year.

More than 24,000 visited the pier last month, the highest ever number recorded in January since records began.

That number more than tripled the previous record set in January, and was also double the amount of visitors at the pier in December.

Bosses hope the high figure is a sign of things to come for the iconic attraction.

New electric trains are due to unveiled in the coming weeks, along with new facilities including a restaurant and public toilets.

Southend Council’s tourism boss Carole Mulroney said: “We’ve had a record-breaking month for tourism to the pier last month and I envisage this will continue to grow throughout the year.

“I’d like to thank pier staff and those working on the pier upgrades for their continued hard work and dedication to improving one of our most iconic attractions.

“Southend has a lot of fantastic upcoming projects and events, and I am sure that locals and those from further away will want to see what is in store.

“This year is a real celebration of Southend and a great opportunity to share our pride for our soon-to-be city with residents and guests alike.”

For more information on the Southend-on-Sea pier, including opening times and facilities, visit www.southendpier.co.uk.