‘Exciting’ future for Southend landmark

It was one of the world's first purpose-built amusement parks, where motorbikes roared along the Wall of Death, visitors were dazzled by lions and polar bears, and you could see legendary rock bands such as Black Sabbath and Queen.

The Kursaal in Southend has been closed since 2020, but now the iconic seaside landmark has moved a step closer to reopening, after a lease deal was finalised.

Picture credit: Jamie Niblock/BBC.