WHO doesn’t love a sunny day at the seaside?

Southend seafront has always been one of our favourite coastal spots to enjoy fun in the sunshine.

The world famous pier and much-loved fun fair and arcade attractions have drawn families and daytrippers for decades.

The Echo archives transport us all back to days when we packed onto the seafront for fun days out.

The lovely images remind us about the great times shared by so many of us.

Glorious and long summer days saw lots of suncream, seaside treats and of course beach fun.

There was, no doubt, heaps of ice cream and that staple fish and chips, not forgetting Southend rock and candyfloss.

Other fun included fun fair rides at the Sunken Gardens, later Peter Pan’s Playground and today Adventure Island.

Sunseekers flocked to top up their tan on the stretching beaches, while water fans paddled and swam in the cooling sea.

Carefree children built sandcastles, searched for crabs and enjoyed sandy fun, while mum, dad and the grandparents relaxed with a good book with feet in the warm sand.

Thrill seekers took to the seafront rides and attractions to be whirled into adrenaline filled highs.

Whizzing rollercoasters and soaking water rides have helped draw the flocks of visitors.