Large tree crashes onto BMW in Westcliff as Storm Austen arrives in Southend
A large tree has crashed onto a BMW in Hobleythick Lane, Westcliff, forcing a road closure near Southend High School for Boys as Storm Austen brings strong winds.
Leigh Lights: Everything you need to know about Light Up Leigh
Your complete guide to Leigh Lights 2026, now called Light Up Leigh. Find out what’s happening on 27 November, including road closures, Santa’s Grotto, Christmas markets, entertainment and shopping.
Police launch investigation after pro-Palestine activist appears to spit on Sir David Amess statue
Police are investigating after a video appeared to show a pro-Palestine activist spitting on Sir David Amess’s statue in Southend, prompting condemnation from politicians and residents.
Meet the woman behind one of Southend’s rising restaurant success stories, as festive bookings surge
Meet the woman behind Prowse Restaurant, the Southend seafront dining spot winning glowing reviews as Christmas bookings open early, with festive menus, live music and pre-pantomime dining.
Man, 18, arrested after fireworks incident leaves families terrified on Southend beach
An 18-year-old Westcliff man has been arrested after fireworks were allegedly set off recklessly on Southend beach, frightening families. Witnesses and event organisers have described the incident.
Southend’s iconic Kursaal moves closer to grand revival with £540,000 funding boost
Southend’s iconic Kursaal has secured £540,000 from Historic England to restore its famous dome, repair the historic building and support plans to reopen as a family entertainment destination.
£671k flagship inclusive playground opens at East Beach in Shoeburyness
A new £671,000 inclusive playground has opened at East Beach in Shoeburyness, featuring wheelchair-accessible equipment, sensory activities and a giant submarine, just in time for October half-term.
Southend KFC granted permission to open until 3am despite residents’ noise concerns
Southend’s KFC at Greyhound Trading Park has secured permission for 3am drive-thru opening every night, despite residents’ concerns about noise, antisocial behaviour and late-night disturbances.
Three ambulance staff taken to hospital after two ambulances collide near Southend Hospital
Three ambulance staff were taken to hospital after two ambulances collided near Southend Hospital. One crashed into a tree.
Six Southend grammar school places withdrawn after families found using false addresses
Six Southend grammar school offers have been withdrawn after council investigators uncovered false addresses, prompting debate about school catchment areas, academic ability and fair admissions.
Two ATMs taped up and set to be removed from Southend High Street as Halifax closes for good
Two Halifax cash machines have been taped up and are set to be removed following the permanent closure of the bank’s Southend High Street branch.
More than £7,000 raised for family of Southend mum, 32, as partner shares heartbreaking tribute
More than £7,000 has been raised for the family of Southend mum Lauren Rawlinson, 32, as her partner Carl Stead, siblings and friends share heartbreaking tributes.
Classic sports car destroyed by fire in Shoeburyness as driver escapes blaze
A classic TVR sports car was destroyed by fire on Hospital Road in Shoeburyness on Thursday. Witnesses describe the driver’s escape as concerns are raised about ageing fuel systems.
Madness to headline special Priory Park concert as Lazydays Festival expands for 2027
Madness will be coming to Southend for a special Priory Park concert in July 2027 as Lazydays Festival expands to four days. Here’s when tickets go on sale.
Leigh-on-Sea man jailed for 13 years after kidnapping 11-year-old girl
A Leigh-on-Sea man has been jailed for 13 years and six months after kidnapping an 11-year-old girl, forcing her into an alleyway and assaulting her in Woodleigh Avenue.