This fascinating book brings together the personal memories of people who have lived and grown up in Southend-on-Sea during the last century. Reminiscences range from childhood games, working days and memories of the war years, to schools, churches and some of the local characters. Recollections include stories of The Palace Hotel, the Kursaal fairground, and the pier with its skating rink and paddle steamers. The stories are complemented by over 120 photographs drawn from the private collections of the contributors.