Southend Pier has come in for a battering from consumer watchdogs who have voted it one of the worst outdoor attractions in the country.

In a damning report to be published next month, the Which? Guide to Tourist Attractions described the pier as "bleak and depressing".

The survey looked at more than 300 attractions nationwide and compared visitor numbers, prices and facilities.

It found fault with the tour guides, the shops, the public toilets and even the famous cod and chips served up by McGinty's Cafe Bar.

However, it did find room for some praise: "It really needs fine weather and crowds to bring it to life. Go on a summer weekend during a special event and it could be good fun, though parking will be difficult."

But it added: "Out of season or in bad weather the place can be bleak and depressing, with little going on and everyone huddling indoors."

Of the shops, it said: "The Pier Emporium is not the most upmarket of shops, but it offers a good range of seaside trinkets and knick-knacks to take home."

It had little good to say about food and drink and claimed the cod and chips at McGinty's were "heavily battered and somewhat greasy".

Cafe owner Francis McGinty said he was shocked at the criticism. He said: "I suppose if they are disappointed with the rest of the pier then it will be a job to find anything good about the place.

"We have had people come back time after time to eat our fish and chips. I'm sorry if the survey people didn't enjoy it."

No-one at Southend Council - which owns the pier - was available for comment.

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