Fright delights on the Pier Ghost Train

On these nights from 6.30pm, the popular Pier train will transport daring passengers - invited to turn up in fancy dress - to the Pier head where ghostly goings on will be going on.  

Resident Pier Witch, Georgina will be telling ghost stories from 7:15pm and members of the Tina Phelps Dance School will be performing Thriller.  

If all the spookiness sends a chill down the spine, help will be at hand with hot refreshments and face painting.

The Pier head is also an unrivalled vantage point from which to watch the fabulous seafront firework display starting at 8pm.  

Then the return train departs at 8:15pm and will be back safely at the landward end of the Pier by 8:30pm.  

All this costs just £6 per adult and £4 per child and it is essential to book tickets beforehand to avoid disappointment.  

• Meanwhile, there is still time to submit your own ghost story for a special new competition.  The winning story will be read out at the Pier Head by either the winning author or the willing witch, Georgina , on each night the Pier ghost train runs.
• Inspired by the recent Eastenders filming in Southend, stories submitted must involve an Eastenders character who has either passed away or been murdered.
• Tales must be no more than three minutes long, and must be suitable for all ages
• The winning author will be allowed to bring three guests with them to share their moment  

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council's Executive Councillor for Culture and Tourism, Councillor Derek Jarvis said: "This is our third annual Pier ghost train event.

"It's always hugely popular and is great fun when the passengers, young and old, fully enter the spirit of the spookiness!  

"We very much look forward to seeing the ghost stories people submit, so now's the time to get writing, if you haven't already done so!"

  For Pier Ghost Train tickets, and to submit your ghost story, please contact Southend Visitor Information Centre on 01702 618747 or email: vic@southend.gov.uk