TRADERS are counting their blessings – and their takings – after a bumper weekend.
Daytrippers and residents flocked to Southend seafront to enjoy the hottest day of the year so far. The mercury reached 25C on Sunday and temperatures continued to sizzle yesterday.
Even the prospect of Andy Murray going for glory at Wimbledon on TV couldn’t keep thousands of sunseekers away from the coast. Additional vans and drivers have been drafted in by bosses at Rossi’s ice cream company because demand for its products has been so high.
Director Colin Gray said: “It was a well-deserved summer weekend for everyone concerned. It was the perfect time to enjoy a Rossi’s, even though you can enjoy it all year round. It was great to see Southend so busy and all the visitors having a really good time. I have got a fabulous team of staff who are hard at work producing litres and litres of ice cream for residents and visitors to Southend."
He added: "It’s a very busy time for us. We are even having to bring in additional vans and temporary drivers to make sure we can get Rossi’s from our factory to all of our suppliers. Summer is finally here and long may it continue!”
While families flocked to Adventure Island, splashed about in the sea and built sandcastles on the packed beaches, beer gardens and seafront pubs were full of thirsty customers wanting to make the most of the sunshine.
Simon Patterson, co-owner of Chinnerys pub, in Marine Parade, and chairman of Southend Seafront Traders Association, said: “It was absolutely great this weekend and everyone was making the most of the weather. Hopefully, it will continue into the week.”