Southend's much-loved bandstand reopens in its new home in Priory Park on Sunday.
The structure was dismantled six years ago after the cliffs slippage and stored at Southend Council’s parks nursery.
Now it has been reconstructed and, at its new site between the cafe and bowling green, is ready to entertain crowds over the summer months with a series of planned concerts and community events.
It will be officially relaunched on Sunday with Southend Band, conducted by bandmaster Andrew Rodgers, performing from 3pm until 5pm, featuring a variety of music. Derek Jarvis, Tory cabinet member for culture, said: "It is terrific our well-loved and much-missed bandstand will in full operation again in the very attractive surroundings of Priory Park.
"We do hope as many people as possible come along to enjoy this fabulous opportunity to hear a great variety of music on offer, free of charge this summer, performed by many talented local performers. We are delighted the Bandstand can be used and relished in its new Priory Park home, until it ultimately returns to the seafront as part of future developments there."
The music programme continues on Saturday, July 26 with Becontree Brass Band, followed by a return visit by Southend Band on Sunday, July 27.
On Sunday, August 3, distinguished jazz duo Digby Fairweather and Tony Compton will entertain an audience, followed by a weekend of jazz on August 9 and 10.
There are events planned every weekend until September 21. Admission is free and all events take place between 3pm and 5pm.
Source: Echo
