May 29, 2023

It was a very special Day – and weekend – to remember for Clacton Pier as it unveiled its latest attraction.

Families flocked to the opening of Jurassic Pier with TV celebrity Andy Day cutting the ribbon in front of a large crowd.

The children’s favourite also performed four of his Dino Raps Shows in the Jolly Roger Theatre, all completely sold out.

A free fireworks display set to music and laser lighting on Sunday as well as live music and children’s entertainment throughout, rounded off a bumper bank holiday.

Pier director Billy Ball said it was a full-on three days and he hoped it was same across the whole town.

“It was certainly one of the busiest Whitsun Bank Holiday weekends I can remember and it was brilliant to see so many people having fun with us,” he said.

“Obviously our £500,000 Jurassic Pier proved a big draw and Andy did us proud. He had time for everyone who wanted to see him and get a photo.

“Andy was really impressed with our latest addition and his shows were fast and furious and really brought the Jolly Roger to life. It was rocking in there.

“Special thanks are also due to MRL Productions and Dynamic Fireworks for the part they played in making the weekend such a success.”

Jurassic Pier is an interactive dino walk-through experience leading into a 4D cinema which includes motion seating, audio-visual sound and lighting systems, 3D glasses and water squirters.

It is also a learning adventure recreating the world as it was in prehistoric times and allows visitors to walk with giant animatronic dinosaurs.

The whole event was run is association with the Year of the Pier 2023.

Among the invited guests was the Chairman of the National Piers Society, Tim Wardley, who added: "Jurassic Pier is yet another fun, educational and innovative attraction at Clacton Pier which is a big hit with all ages, children and adults. 

“The realistic moving displays, interactive cinema experience and knowledgeable rangers offer a magical insight into a world of 200 million years ago.

“It is yet another demonstration of the pier owners’ imaginative attractions which ensure Clacton Pier remains one of the premier  go-to seaside attractions on the Essex coast.”

Next weekend a £130,000 revamp of the Boardwalk Bar and Grill will be complete.

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