FURIOUS residents have insisted Canvey is a “special place” to live with a great community after the island was branded a “hell hole”.

The island was a thriving holiday destination in the 60s with a booming tourist economy that saw holiday-makers flock to the island from across the south east – even attracting big names like Tommy Cooper and Shirley Bassey.

However, a Daily Mail piece over the weekend branded it “deserted” and quoted residents claiming it was a “1960s time warp”.

Now, residents have hit back at the piece insisting the island has countless benefits – including beautiful walks, historic attractions like the Dutch Cottage, and plenty of pubs on top of a great community spirit.

Elizabeth Borley, 71, who has lived on Canvey her whole life, said: “Canvey is a special place. You can take a walk along the seawall, and everyone says hello to each other and are happy to chat.

Echo: Happy - Elizabeth Borley enjoying CanveyHappy - Elizabeth Borley enjoying Canvey (Image: Newsquest)

“People come here to visit because of its friendliness and its slightly old school feel. If anything, Canvey has had a revival in recent years with people looking for more innocent fun like beach days.

“Alongside the seafront, we have the Dutch Cottage, lovely walks like the nature reserve and Canvey heights, and an amazing selection of quality places to eat.”

Mandy Shevill, 59, added: “I have lived on the Island for over 50 years, and I love living here. Everyone knows everyone, and people watch out for one another.

“It could do with some improvements, and I hope the council invest in the seafront, and get Canvey Lake dredged. But I think the Island has a far brighter future than has been suggested.”

Derek Joslin, 83, said: “I love it very much. Canvey residents are really friendly. When you are out and about, they all say good day.

Echo: Smiles - Derek Joslin says 'it is the best place'Smiles - Derek Joslin says 'it is the best place' (Image: Newsquest)

“It is the best place and is a happy place to live on Canvey.”

In the Mail article, Castle Point Council leader Dave Blackwell agreed that the Island had declined over the years, however he told the Echo he was referring to a an alleged lack of investment after “20 years of Conservative control” and added “Canvey is a super place to live and has an amazing community”.

Rebecca Harris, MP for Castle Point, added: “I don’t recognise the Canvey this article is describing at all. Most Canvey people are fiercely proud of the Island and love living there.”

Echo: Proud - Rebecca Harris on CanveyProud - Rebecca Harris on Canvey (Image: Newsquest)