Thanks for my planks! – Southend Pier

 To celebrate this terrific total, the person who sponsored the icon's 1,000th plank is being honoured at a special ceremony at 11.15am on Thursday 11th November.

Pier fan Mrs Jackie Bignell of St Albans, who adopted three planks for each of her three grandchildren, hit the jackpot as the 1,000th such supporter.

She is being presented with a bottle of champagne donated by contractors Kieran Lucas who currently have the Pier & Foreshore maintenance contract.

Mrs Bignell says: "I have spent many a happy day visiting Southend over the last 50 years. These planks are for my grandchildren whom I hope will also enjoy a visit to the Pier."

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council's Deputy Leader, Councillor John Lamb says: "We have been running the Adopt a Plank opportunity with great success since April 1999. This excellent scheme allows us buy things for the Pier that we would not otherwise benefit from. We introduced it specially to raise money for projects on the Pier that would not be achievable through usual sources. So far, these have included stainless steel benches and display stands and cabinets, and the installation of the spectacular mosaic mural. The fund is ring-fenced and the money cannot be spent on general maintenance.

"Congratulations to Mrs Bignell for becoming our 1,000th sponsor! We heartily thank her and all the other 999 for their much appreciated contributions for our unique international landmark!

"It costs £50 for an individual to adopt a plank, or £250 for a commercial sponsor - giving an ideal advertising opportunity. Each sponsor receives a certificate, and their name is listed on the Roll of Honour Board in the North Station on Southend Pier. We warmly encourage anyone else keen to join the Adopt a Plank scheme to call 01702 215000 or visit www.southend.gov.uk"