Southend’s celebrity chef has expressed his delight at the new free wi-fi which has been set up on the pier.

Jamie Oliver sent his compliments to the team that installed the free public internet access along the pier through his social media account.

He tweeted: “Nice one team. Big Love JOx.”

The installation of the wi-fi means visitors to the pier can enjoy “seamless connectivity” despite being up to 1.34 miles into the Thames Estuary.

Jamie and best friend, Jimmy Doherty run film the Friday Night Feast TV series in a specially-built cafe at the end of the pier.

Visitors to the restaurant and to the pier will now be able to share their experiences in real-time.

IntechnologyWiFi installed the wi-fi which will bring new life to the 187-year-old structure.

Southend Council granted the firm a concession to install and maintain wireless equipment on the street furniture and buildings owned by the local authority and partners in Southend’s town centre.

Natalie Duffield, chief executive of IntechnologyWiFi, said: “We are big fans of Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast and are delighted to serve up the best quality wi-fi for their lovely cafe at the end of Southend pier.”

The installation is part of the wider roll-out of the service in Southend, which officially went live on Saturday.

Ann Holland, councillor for culture, tourism and the economy, said: “All of Southend now has free wi-fi, it helps visitors find car parks and see what’s on through our app.

“The pier was always going to be a problem because of how far it goes out, so this is great news.”

The service is going to be available in the High Street, central seafront, Leigh Broadway and Hamlet Court Road.