SOUTHEND'S iconic pier saw more than 150,000 visitors in 2020, despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic - beating some of the numbers from the year before.

The latest visitor numbers show that in September and October last year, the pier saw more people visit the attraction than the same time period the year before.

And January’s 2020 visitor figures of 16,808 is also a record number over the past 14 years.

In total, there were 168,691 visitors to the pier in 2020, despite the fact it was closed for almost five months.

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Southend Council says the pier has been operating with several safety measures in place, including facemasks being worn in enclosed areas and on the train, sanitising stations, and regular cleansing of the pier trains.

Kevin Robinson, councillor in charge of business, culture, and tourismsaid: “When we reopened the pier back in June, we knew that many people would be cautious about visiting, given the concern surrounding the Coronavirus pandemic. However, we still managed to beat some 2019 visitor numbers.

“I am delighted to say we have seen over 168,000 people visit the pier in 2020 despite the various closures that were necessary.

"It is fantastic to see there is still a real interest in taking in the magnificent views 1.3miles into the estuary.

"The iconic pier trains, which have been in operation on the pier since 1986, will be retired this year.

"We are looking forward to introducing the new eco-friendly pier trains in 2021, which is even more reason to take a trip to the pier once we can reopen.”