SOUTHEND, KURSAAL, PIER, CHANNEL AIRWAYS, 1970, RAILWAY, SOUTHEND ON SEA ESSEX, RARE ARCHIVE FOOTAGE

I have very fond memories of Southend on Sea. My father was an Eastender and Southend on Sea, with the longest pleasure pier in the World, it's annual illuminations and of course The famous Kursaal only short distance from London was then the 'In Place' to visit.. At an early age, I was soon introduced to Southend. It was a magical place and I recall never wanting to leave. In my early youth I was interested in film making and I eventually managed to save up for a basic Standard 8mm Cine Camera. During the Covid Lockdown period, I came across some of the old footage taken in Southend around 1969-70. Unfortunately the very old dusty film was un coded, therefore it was very difficult to accurately date it, but it was filmed most definitely before decimalisation in 1971. At that time, I recall Southend's vibrant atmosphere with hundreds of day trippers crossing the streets, such an amazing place. I look forward to revisiting. I hope you enjoy the film.