Leigh on Sea News

Barnum The Circus Musical Review by Nina Jervis-Green

How can the Cliffs Pavilion’s stage – robust as it is – support the gargantuan weight of talent on display in Barnum The Circus Musical? It’s a question you might find yourself pondering as you leave the theatre, in complete and utter awe.

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Leigh-on-sea Art Trail 2026

The ever popular Leigh Art Trail returns to sunny Leigh-on-sea for two weeks commencing 4th July with more events, artists and venues than ever before

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Recent results at Thorpe Hall School show the effect of their transformed Prep provision

The Prep School at Thorpe Hall School has been on a transformative journey over the last few years. The focus on raising standards has been applied across all year groups, the school has launched a series of innovative new provisions at various age groups since 2022

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Jesus Christ Superstar coming to the Cliffs Pavilion in 2027

The record-breaking West End production of Jesus Christ Superstar, starring Sam Ryder in the iconic role of Jesus is coming to the Cliffs Pavilion for one week only on Tuesday 27th April 2027

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National recognition for ‘Poppies on the Pier’ as a powerful tribute to remembrance

The installation transformed Southend Pier into a sea of poppies, creating a powerful space for reflection and remembrance. With more than 110,000 handmade poppies sent in from across the globe

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Leigh-on-Sea Set for Weekend of Folk Music and Family Entertainment

Leigh Folk Festival returns this weekend, once again transforming our historic seaside town into a vibrant hub of music, culture and community. As the UK’s largest folk festival, the event attracts thousands of visitors and showcases the unique character of Leigh-on-sea as one of Essex’s most popular coastal destinations.

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SUEZ launches new £12,000 Community Fund to support local projects in Southend

SUEZ UK have announced the launch of their new SUEZ Southend Community Fund, a dedicated initiative to empower local groups and organisations to make a meaningful impact across the city.

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Southend Council relaunches interest-free loan scheme to revive empty commercial properties

Southend-on-Sea City Council is aiming to revitalise the development and use of empty commercial properties across Southend, Castle Point, and Rochford by providing interest-free loans of up to £250,000 for a maximum term of 36 months

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Roll up, roll up for the greatest show on earth!

West End favourite, TV star and Essex lad Lee Mead will take centre stage as the legendary P.T. Barnum when it opens at the Cliffs Pavilion on Tuesday 20th June.

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easyJet announces new flights from London Southend to Edinburgh

Flights are on sale now, with the new service set to commence on 25th October 2026 and operate twice a week on Thursdays and Sundays.

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Council confirms commitment to library services as Cabinet agrees next steps for Southchurch

Southend-on-Sea City Council has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining accessible, high-quality library services across the city, as Cabinet agreed next steps for Southchurch Library at its meeting on 15th June

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Two Arrested After Teenager Seriously Injured in Chalkwell Park

Officers were called at around 12.30am on Saturday 13th June to Chalkwell Park, where a group had reportedly taken control of a small loading vehicle without permission.

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Rising demand, rising costs: why Havens Hospices is calling for fairer funding for children’s hospice care

During Children’s Hospice Week (15–21 June 2026), Havens Hospices is adding its voice to a national call for fairer, more sustainable funding for children’s hospice care

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Drift Café Wins Approval to Stay at Old Leigh Marina

The owners of a popular waterside café in Old Leigh are celebrating after receiving planning permission to continue serving customers.

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20 Years of The Long Run, with Special Guests A Leigh-on-sea Folk Festival Signature Concert

Set in the beautiful surroundings of Leigh Library Gardens, this special one‑off show sees The Long Run joined by friends and collaborators

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THE ILLEGAL EAGLES CELEBRATE 30 YEARS WITH TWO SPECIAL GALA PERFORMANCES AT THE CLIFFS PAVILION

To celebrate three decades of touring success, the band's acclaimed production will be expanded with a stunning string section from the Royal College of Music, alongside the much-loved Cream Horns brass section, bringing an even richer dimension to the timeless music of the Eagles.

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Unlock More from Your Southend Parking Pass

The Southend Pass remains great value at just £12.50 per month or £125 per year. It offers up to 3 hours of parking per day in each of Southend’s four zones, that’s potentially 12 hours daily, plus extra evening benefits between 6-9pm in zone 1a and University Square

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Successful Return of Leigh-on-sea Farmers Market Paves Way for Future Events

Leigh-on-sea's first Farmers Market for many years proved to be a roaring success, attracting strong support from residents and visitors alike and marking a welcome return of local produce and independent traders to the community.

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Southend launches first natural flood scheme to protect homes and communities

Southend-on-Sea’s first-ever natural flood management scheme has been installed in Belfairs Woods, helping to better protect local homes, roads and businesses from flooding.

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The Deputy Mayor of Southend to join Durden & Hunt to officially open their new branch in Leigh-on-Sea

The local community are invited to celebrate the opening on 11th July 2026, with complimentary ice creams, coffees, free kids play vouchers, a chance to win star prizes, and more

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