A PATH near Southend is something of a legend amongst ramblers due to its tragic past.

The Broomway – which connects Great Wakering with Foulness Island – has been dubbed the UK’s most dangerous path having claimed many lives over the years.

Some figures suggested more than 100 people have lost their lives while trying to use the path, which is only fully accessible when the tide is out.

It is around six-miles long and people are strongly advised to use local guides when considering a walk along the notorious path.

Echo:

It has earned its reputation as the country’s deadliest path due to the number of people drowning while walking along it.

Tragedies are thought to have occurred on The Broomway over the centuries when walkers have become disorientated by rain, mist and fog, and got caught out by the incoming tide.

An estimated 66 people who lost their lives while trying to walk the path are said to be buried in the area, but the official number of deaths linked to The Broomway is not known.

Echo:

The pathway got its name because hundreds of broomsticks were laid at intervals along it to show users the safest passage and route over the Maplin Sands.

It was the only way to get to across to Foulness Island before a bridge was built in the 20th century.

Foulness Island is owned by the Ministry of Defence and is still used for testing purposes on occasions.