The Easter holiday is coming to an end without the hoped-for heatwave.

Last week's soaring temperatures saw thousands head for Southend's beaches.

But chilly breezes took over at the weekend, leaving only the brave to venture into the sea.

Temperatures dipped from around 24C (75F) to 8C (46F) as the order of the day became scarves, jumpers and top coats.

Southend seafront, seething with day trippers last week, felt the difference yesterday with very few deckchairs around.

Kevin Mathers, manager of the seafront restaurant Three Shells, said: "There are not many people around, apart from a brave few.

"Even they are well wrapped up and are prepared to grin and bear it."

At the Hog's Head, in Hamlet Court Road, Westcliff, manager Simon Murray said: "We were very busy towards the end of last week. But on Saturday, it suddenly went very quiet."

A Met office spokesman said: "We cannot complain too much. It's been very warm and dry for spring. Hopefully, we will get a hot summer."

Published Monday, April 21, 2003

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