Southend Festival of Flowers and Crafts before it became a thing of the past

Held annually in Priory Park, the festival brought a smile to the faces of those who were eager to experience vibrant displays of flowers, trees and plants.

Traditional crafts were also on display, where dancers entertained the crowds and there were even poetry readings.

Throughout the festival, the historic Prittlewell Priory - which was once a home for 12th century Cluniac monks - would be transformed into an English county garden and many visitors felt it rivalled Kew Gardens.

We have delved into our photo archives to rediscover images of festivals held in the 1980s and 1990s.

Bonsai - an exhibitor shows off his cultivation skills

Displays - the amazing flowers inside the Prittlewell Priory could rival Kew Gardens

Eyes lit up - flowers and smiles blossom in May 1989

Read more:

• IN PICTURES: William and Kate's wedding celebrated in south Essex
• When south Essex street parties were held to celebrate Charles and Diana’s wedding

Face it - these girls had a great time at the 1991 festival

Exhibit - visitors take a look at a floral arrangement

Aromatic - Mary Main waters an award-winning entry

Eye-catching performance - Step to it - the Coggeshall clog dancers came to Southend to entertain the crowds in 1989

Perusing - Vicky Bacon and Sylvia Drage

Looking back - a youngster is impressed by a display