In the 1950s, Southend's Never Never Land was like Disneyland for youngsters across Essex and even further afield.

Nestling in the shrubbery on Southend Cliffs opposite the then Peter Pans Playground, it was a far more discreet affair.

Meandering paths were dotted with mythical castles, goblins, dragons and fairies – all gently lit from the trees above. There was even a model railway.

Partially hidden by the greenery, you could almost miss a turreted castle.

Excited children would come upon the eerie little fortresses quite suddenly and would peer into dimly-it windows, eager to spot a fairy.

Never Never Land had to be explored at night for best effect and many of the smallest visitors had to be carried home exhausted, but happy.

However, the place became neglected and vandalised and was taken down in 1972.

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A new hi-tech version installed in 1987 never captured the imagination of youngsters in quite the same way as the original one and it was closed in 2000.

It will, however, remain an abiding memory for thousands of children from a magical, innocent era.

In 2019, The Never Never Land rock garden saw its water fountain flowing again and all six of its fantasy castles repainted and restored by Southend artist, David Taylor.