Southend High Street hosts Commonwealth Games baton relay

A range of live entertainment and performances kicked off the event in the city centre as families and visitors gathered along the high street and outside the Odeon Cinema in anticipation.

Brazilarte kicked off the event with live performances. Credit: Gaz de Vere

Visitors gathered in the High Street. Credit: Gaz de Vere

Southend councillor responsible for tourism, Carole Mulroney, made a speech as athlete Sam Bennett held the Queen's Baton ahead of the relay. 

The second baton bearer in Southend High Street. Credit: Gaz de Vere

Read more >>> Queen's Baton taken through Southend during relay ahead of Commonwealth Games

Sam, from Langdon Hills, won gold in the 110m hurdles at the 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games and European U18 gold in 2018.

The relay then passed through Southend High Street to Pier Hill from 11.10am.

Brazilarte with Essex Police officers in the city centre. Credit: Gaz de Vere

Dean Macey, an athlete from Canvey, was the final baton bearer for Southend before the relay went on to Maldon.

Final baton bearer for Southend, Dean Macey. Credit: Gaz de Vere

Southend mayor Kevin Robinson and Rochford and Southend East MP James Duddridge. Credit: Gaz de Vere

Activities will carry on today at Pier Hill behind the Royals Shopping Centre until 3pm.

Credit: Gaz de Vere

Performances at Pier Hill. Credit: Gaz de Vere

Held every four years, the games involve athletes from the Commonwealth of Nations.

This year’s games will kick off in Birmingham on July 28.

Performances at Pier Hill. Credit: Gaz de Vere