Voting for Big Sparks projects kicks off Saturday 21 June and will be open for 3 weeks.

This will give residents living in Shoeburyness, parts of Southchurch, Thorpe and West Shoebury wards an opportunity to vote on community projects.

An in-person voting session is taking place at Shoebury Youth Centre on Saturday 21 June, 1pm to 3pm. A voting box will also be left at Shoebury Library. From Saturday, you can also vote on the Your Say Southend website.

Southend-on-Sea welcomes back internationally renowned baroque ensemble Red Priest to the city with a thrilling new programme this evening (Friday 20 June).

The current hot weather can cause potential health risks to some, so whether you are out and about, maybe heading to the beach, the park or planning to stay at home please make sure to stay safe, hydrated and cool.

The summer information on our website has lots of information and advice including tips from the NHS on how to manage the heat.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service are asking the public to remain vigilant about fire safety throughout summer, especially this weekend as the hot weather is set to continue.

To help protect Essex’s countryside and green spaces, residents and visitors are being asked to take simple precautions.

This week is Drowning Prevention Week and with the recent hot weather it is a good time to reminder people about enjoying the water safely.