The annual three-day Grand Puppet Festival at Southend Pier attracted about 15,000 visitors.

Enjoying the show - Joshua Penn with Chris Gasper Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL

Six puppeteers put on three or four daily performances on Friday, Saturday and Sunday using characters ranging from traditional Punch and Judy hand puppets to modern marionettes based on David Beckham, Elvis and Dolly Parton.

Shows were scattered around the pier head.

Pier and foreshore manager Lynn Simpson said: "It's gone very well.

"All the puppeteers have commented on the lovely audiences they have had for their shows and the weather has helped."

The event takes place every August.

Published Monday August 9, 2004

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