Author: Web Admin

£750k awarded to Creative Tendring as Arts Council England announces new Creative People and Places portfolio

£750k awarded to Creative Tendring as Arts Council England announces new Creative People and Places portfolio

Posted on by Web Admin

Creative Tendring has been awarded £750,000 as part of Arts Council England’s largest ever Creative People and Places (CPP) Portfolio, investing £42 million across 45 UK programmes from 2026–29 to spark more grassroots-led cultural experiences in areas where participation in the arts is below the national average.

Hosted by Arts Trust Productions in partnership with Tendring District Council, Community Voluntary Services Tendring, and The Harwich Festival, Creative Tendring will connect world-class artists with local communities to celebrate what makes Tendring unique. The programme will focus on tackling isolation, supporting wellbeing, and helping people of all ages and backgrounds build confidence through creativity.

TDC Creative Tendring

From April 2026, the Creative Tendring team will begin its development phase, working with our residents and local partners who will shape the ideas and build projects that reflect the district’s creativity and culture. Expect community-led festivals, workshops and public art projects to follow; designed, created and owned by the people of Tendring. The first public events will launch in early 2027, marking the start of a long-term commitment to embedding creativity into everyday life.

This funding is made possible thanks to National Lottery players. Every National Lottery ticket purchased generates money for good causes and enables people in villages, towns and cities across the country to access cultural experiences where they live.

Arts Trust Productions is behind some of the UK’s most vibrant community cultural events, including Summer in the Park and King’s Cross Summer Sounds. Both festivals are open to the public to simply turn up and enjoy, with Summer in the Park completely free to attend and King’s Cross Summer Sounds offering a mix of free and ticketed performances. Together, these outdoor festivals attract tens of thousands of visitors each year, transforming public spaces into lively hubs of music, creativity and connection. Each event strengthens communities and demonstrates how culture can reimagine shared spaces. In 2025, the charity launched St Osyth Summer Sounds, extending its cultural reach across the region.

Martin Collins, CEO & Founder of Arts Trust Productions, said: “Creative Tendring is all about unlocking the potential that already exists within our communities. By working together, we can build a cultural future that truly belongs to the people of Tendring.”

Gary Scott, Tendring District Council’s Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture and Heritage, said: “This is a significant boost for the arts and creativity in our district. Creative Tendring is all about putting local people at the heart of arts and culture, and I’m genuinely excited to see how it will ignite creativity and pride within our communities. Championing the arts means more than just hosting great events; it’s about raising aspirations, opening doors and creating opportunities for everyone to thrive.”

Hazel Edwards, South East Area Director, Arts Council England, said: “Creative Tendring shows how community-led cultural investment can transform lives, by placing decision-making in the hands of local people and working with world-class artists. We are proud to support a partnership that is building a vibrant and inclusive cultural ecosystem, one that will leave a lasting legacy for Tendring’s communities.”

Peter Davis, Artistic Director of Harwich Festival said: “We are so pleased that the Creative Tendring bid was successful and we are thrilled to be part of it. We look forward to working with our local community to help them achieve their ambitions for the future”.

Lisa Andrews, Chief Officer of Community Voluntary Services Tendring (CVST), said: “At CVST we know the amazing benefits coming together in creative activity can have. Social isolation can have a huge impact on overall health and wellbeing, and we are thrilled that there is now this Arts Council funding to deliver creative projects that will benefit the wellbeing of residents in Tendring”.

Issued on behalf of Arts Trust Productions

Clacton Airshow is flying high after being shortlisted for a prestigious national award

Clacton Airshow is flying high after being shortlisted for a prestigious national award

Posted on by Web Admin

Clacton Airshow is flying high after being shortlisted for a prestigious national accolade – the National Outdoor Events Association (NOEA) Regional Event of the Year Award.

The nomination is a proud moment not just for the event, but for Clacton itself – showcasing the town as a vibrant, welcoming destination to an estimated 200,000 visitors in 2025.

The popular airshow, organised by Tendring District Council (TDC), has become a summer staple, delivering an estimated £12million annual boost to the local economy.

The NOEA Awards shine a spotlight on the very best in the business – and Clacton Airshow’s nomination places it among the elite.

The winners will be revealed at a glittering ceremony at the Roman Baths and Pump Rooms in Bath on 26 November.

Red Arrows Displaying at Clacton Airshow 2025
Credit: Simon Rich Photography

Ivan Henderson, TDC Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said he was delighted that the airshow has been recognised by the UK’s leading outdoor events body as one of the best regional events in England.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be shortlisted – it’s a real feather in our cap and a proud moment for everyone involved in making Clacton Airshow such a standout event,” he said.

“Clacton Airshow is more than just a display – it’s a celebration of aviation, heritage and community, and a showcase of everything that makes Clacton so special.

“It’s a chance to shine a light on the town’s energy, creativity and spirit – and to share that with visitors from across the country.

“This recognition shows that what we’re building here in Clacton is being noticed nationally – and that the town continues to grow as a place of opportunity, pride and aspiration.”

This year’s Clacton Airshow featured everything from the roar of the Red to the sparkle of twilight fireworks, with historic warbirds, cutting-edge aerobatics, and a bustling ground show.

For the first time, the event was also livestreamed, bringing the action to thousands more across the UK.

Clacton Airshow will return in 2026 on Thursday 27 and Friday 28 August, promising another unforgettable celebration of aviation and seaside fun.

Fly away to Neverland this Christmas with magical performances of Peter Pan panto at Clacton’s Princes Theatre

Fly away to Neverland this Christmas with magical performances of Peter Pan panto at Clacton’s Princes Theatre

Posted on by Web Admin

Audiences are invited to take flight this Christmas as the Princes Theatre in Clacton transforms into Neverland for a magical pantomime adventure – including a series of special performances.

Presented by Shone Productions, the Magical Adventures of Peter Pan will run at the Tendring District Council-run (TDC) theatre from 6 to 29 December.

The Magical Adventures of Peter Pan at the Princes Theatre Clacton 2025.
The Magical Adventures of Peter Pan at the Princes Theatre Clacton 2025

This high-energy production filled with pirates, fairies, mermaids and mischief promises a spectacular experience for all ages, featuring live music, dazzling dance routines, stunning costumes and breathtaking 3D effects.

But alongside the main run, the theatre is offering three special performances designed to make the magic accessible to even more people.

A British Sign Language (BSL) performance will take place on Sunday 14 December at 3.30pm, ensuring Deaf and hard-of-hearing audiences can enjoy the show.

A relaxed performance will be held on Thursday 18 December at 6pm, designed to create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

This show contains no complete darkness, loud noises, flashing lights or pyrotechnics, and allows audience members to move around freely if needed.

And for those looking to add a cheeky twist to their festive season, two adults-only performances will take place on Saturday 27 December and Sunday 28 December at 8pm.

These risqué shows invite grown-up audiences to enjoy a mischievous evening of laughter, innuendo and outrageous humour, all delivered by the same professional cast and crew as the standard run.

The pantomime follows Peter Pan, the boy who refuses to grow up, and his loyal fairy sidekick Tink as they return to Neverland.

There, they face off against the villainous Captain Hook, who is out for revenge after losing his hand to a hungry crocodile.

With the help of magical fairy dust and a band of loyal friends, Peter must outwit Hook and his bumbling crew, discovering the true meaning of love, loyalty and never-ending magic.

The cast includes Jack Daniels in the title role, Georgia Newton returning as Tink, Daniel Hanton as Mrs Smee, Ben Coles as Smee, and Nigel Peever as Captain Hook.

Gary Scott, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture and Heritage, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Peter Pan to the Princes Theatre this Christmas – it’s a magical adventure bursting with music, mischief and fairy dust.

“What makes this year extra special is the variety of performances we’re offering. Whether you’re after a relaxed and inclusive experience, a signed show, or a cheeky night out with friends, there’s truly something for everyone in Neverland.

“Last year’s adults-only performance was a roaring success – so much so, we’ve doubled the fun this time with two naughty nights of risqué humour and outrageous laughter.

“It’s the same dazzling production, just with the cast letting their hair down and embracing their cheekier side.

“I’m also really proud that we’re once again hosting a relaxed performance, where audiences can enjoy the show in a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.

“It’s all part of our commitment to making theatre accessible, inclusive and magical for all.”

Tickets are available now from the Princes Theatre website at www.princestheatre.co.uk or by calling the Box Office on 01255 686633 (Option 1).

Business Fortnight off to a strong start as Tendring celebrates local enterprise

Business Fortnight off to a strong start as Tendring celebrates local enterprise

Posted on by Web Admin

endring’s celebration of local business is off to a flying start, with entrepreneurs, community leaders and council representatives gathering at Clacton Town Hall to kick off Business Fortnight.

From Monday 22 September to Thursday 2 October, venues across the district will host a series of inspiring sessions as part of Tendring4Growth, Tendring District Council’s (TDC) flagship initiative for economic development.

The opening session on Monday, Working with Tendring District Council, gave attendees practical insights into becoming council-approved suppliers and accessing contract opportunities, with presentations from TDC Chief Executive Ian Davidson, TDC’s Corporate Governance, Performance and Procurement Manager and Essex Procurement Partnership.

The programme continues this week with The AI Effect: Creativity, Culture and Tourism Reimagined at the Columbine Centre in Walton on Tuesday 23 September at 6pm; Writing Successful Bids and Grant Applications at Weeley Village Hall on Wednesday 24 September at 10am; and the return of the popular Tendring Jobs and Skills Fair at the Princes Theatre in Clacton on Thursday 25 September from 10.30am.

Next week, the spotlight turns to new and young entrepreneurs, with events designed to inspire and support the next generation of business leaders.

On Tuesday afternoon, Supporting Start-ups in Tendring will take place at East Coast 5 in Walton, featuring local business owners sharing their journeys and advice. That evening, From Idea to Impact: Supporting Young Businesspeople will be held at McGrigor Hall in Frinton, offering expert guidance and networking for young entrepreneurs.

On Wednesday evening, Building Tomorrow’s Town Centres will be hosted at Air Rescue UK in Harwich, inviting bold ideas for revitalising high streets and creating inclusive communities. The fortnight concludes on Thursday with the Tendring4Growth Business Awards, celebrating the district’s most outstanding businesses.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism at Tendring District Council, said: “It’s been fantastic to see Business Fortnight get underway with such energy and enthusiasm.

“The opening event showed just how much appetite there is among local businesses to engage, grow and collaborate.

“Next week’s sessions are all about nurturing new ideas and supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs — and I’d encourage anyone with a business dream to come along and get involved.”

All events are free to attend. To book your place, go to www.tendring4growth.com.

Have your say on proposed changes to Conservation Areas in Manningtree & Mistley, and St Osyth

Have your say on proposed changes to Conservation Areas in Manningtree & Mistley, and St Osyth

Posted on by Web Admin

Residents are being asked to have their say on how local heritage is protected in Manningtree & Mistley, and St Osyth.

Tendring District Council (TDC) has today (22 September) launched a further four-week public consultation on the two Conservation Area Appraisals.

The consultation follows proposed changes to the boundaries of the Conservation Areas in the locations, based on feedback received during earlier consultations held in October 2021 and May 2022.

These changes have been informed by a detailed review of public comments, historic mapping, and on-the-ground features.

The updated Conservation Area Appraisals aim to better reflect the unique character of each area and provide guidance for future development and conservation.

They form part of the council’s ongoing commitment to protecting local heritage, as set out in the Heritage Strategy adopted in 2020.

Councillor Andy Baker, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, said the council was grateful to everyone who took part in the earlier consultations and encouraged residents to engage with the revised proposals.

He said: “Conservation Area Appraisals help us safeguard the beautiful and historic sites in our district for future generations.

“We highly value the opinions of local residents and strongly encourage you to participate in this consultation.

“By taking part, residents are shaping the future of their own communities, which will help them take even greater pride in where they live.”

To take part in the consultation, which runs until 20 October, and to view the updated appraisal documents and maps, go to https://tendringdc.oc2.uk. Hard copies will also be available at local libraries and at the Town Hall in Clacton.

If you have already submitted comments during the earlier consultations and do not wish to make any further contributions, there is no need to contact us again. However, we welcome additional feedback from anyone who would like to respond to the updated proposals.

Comments can be submitted online via the council’s consultation portal, by email to planning.policy@tendringdc.gov.uk, or in writing to the Planning Policy Team at Tendring District Council, Town Hall, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 1SE.

RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight to join Clacton Airshow 2025 in poignant commemoration of the end of Second World War

RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight to join Clacton Airshow 2025 in poignant commemoration of the end of Second World War

Posted on by Web Admin
Spitfire_P7350_-3__Photographer–Darren_Harbar


The iconic RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will be joining this summer’s Clacton Airshow – as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.

Staged by Tendring District Council (TDC), the 32nd Clacton Airshow promises to be an exhilarating event, with a thrilling programme of flights – including the RAF Red Arrows on both days – and a whole host of activities on the ground.
The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight is set to take to the skies in Clacton with the celebrated Supermarine Spitfire – which was critical in defeating Luftwaffe air attacks during the battle in 1940 – as well as the famous Hawker Hurricane and the Douglas C47 Dakota.

The mission of the flight, which is operated by regular RAF aircrew, is to maintain the priceless artefacts in an airworthy condition in commemoration those who have fallen in the service of the country – as well as promoting the RAF and inspiring future generations.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism at TDC, expressed his excitement about the return of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight to Clacton.

“This historic flight continues to captivate audiences and is a real crowd favourite,” he said.
“The powerful roar of the engines is a signature sound of the Clacton Airshow, providing spectators along the seafront with an unparalleled close-up view of these legendary aircraft.

“Experiencing these majestic and iconic planes – symbols of the Battle of Britain and numerous other Second World War missions – is truly unforgettable.

“This year, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, will be especially poignant.
“With the dazzling RAF Red Arrows also set to perform, this year’s Clacton Airshow promises to be an extraordinary event – with even more flights to be revealed in the coming months.”

Also announced for the flight line-up is the return of the RAF Grob Tutor T1, which is used by the RAF to provide flying instruction – being easy to handle and fully aerobatic, the aircraft is excellent for teaching the basics of flight.

Enchanting immersive heritage trail launches in Tendring

Enchanting immersive heritage trail launches in Tendring

Posted on by Web Admin
Walton Tendring Witch Heritage Trail TDC April 25
Tendring Witch Heritage Trail – Location Walton.

Tendring District Council (TDC) has launched a new immersive storytelling experience in Manningtree, St Osyth, Harwich and Walton-on-the-Naze.

Stories of the Tendring Hundred communities affected by the Essex witch trials have been brought to life for the first time through augmented reality – accessed by smart phone – to offer visitors of all ages a living history experience.

Unique wooden benches and information boards that reflect each location’s history have been installed, with additional historic information available on the Essex Sunshine Coast website.

Alison Rowlands, Professor of European History at the University of Essex, has been instrumental to ensure the stories of those impacted by the witch trails are told authentically and resonate in today’s society.

She said: “It is wonderful to see the months of hard work coming to fruition.

“I’m thrilled to see the finished results in their local settings and hope many other people from our region will be inspired to visit them.”

Gary Scott, TDC Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture and Heritage was thrilled to see the trail unveiled.

“The Tendring Witch Heritage Trail is an immersive journey through our district’s past,” he said.

“It not only preserves our past, but it brings to life the rich stories that have shaped our history.

“The trail also commemorates the lives of the Tendring communities that were brutally persecuted for witchcraft in the 16th and 17th Centuries.

“The sculpted benches are absolutely charming, and the augmented reality experience offers another dimension that will fascinate visitors and residents alike.

“Promoting our heritage, attracting visitors and encouraging them to stay longer is a core part of Our Vision, the council’s corporate plan.”

The trail was made possible thanks to £49,385 of funding from the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF).

Flight fans get ready to soar as hospitality tickets go on sale for Clacton Airshow 2025

Flight fans get ready to soar as hospitality tickets go on sale for Clacton Airshow 2025

Posted on by Web Admin

Flight fans can make this summer’s Clacton Airshow even more spectacular by snapping up tickets to the high-flying events popular hospitality area.

Operated by the Black Jacket, the hospitality area offers a delightful two-course meal, canapés, and refreshments, all while enjoying an elevated viewing area for the breathtaking flight displays.

And there’s also shelter – just in case the weather on the Essex Sunshine Coast doesn’t play ball on 21-22 August.

Staged by Tendring District Council (TDC), Clacton Airshow 2025 promises to be a thrilling event, with a great programme of flights in the sky – including the RAF Red Arrows on both days – and a whole host of activities on the ground.

Credit: RAF Red Arrows two Hawk formation.
Credit: RAF Red Arrows two Hawk formation.

Nicola Denny, Operations Director at Thorrington-based Black Jacket Group, said she was looking forward to welcoming both new and returning guests the hospitality area.

“We’re absolutely buzzing to host the hospitality marquee at Clacton Airshow again,” she said.

“Hospitality tickets give you exclusive access to the show, away from the hustle and bustle.

“Centrally located, the hospitality area is perfectly set against the stunning backdrop of Clacton seafront.

“We can’t wait to team up with Tendring District Council to make this event a soaring success.”

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said an exciting flight programme is currently being developed by the airshow team.

“Clacton Airshow is the East Coast’s premier airshow and one of the biggest events in Essex, regularly attracting 250,000 visitors over the two days,” he said.

“We invite people to make this wonderful occasion even more special by joining the festivities in the hospitality area.

“We’re thrilled to welcome back the Black Jacket Group, a Tendring-based firm, to run the hospitality area again this year.

“Clacton Airshow is important to the district’s economy – and it’s the support of the people that keeps this fantastic event flying high.”

Hospitality tickets include parking, a souvenir programme, welcome drinks, a selection of canapés, a main course and dessert, half a bottle of wine per person, and complimentary tea, coffee, and squash for children throughout the day. There will also be a full bar selection available, private toilet facilities, and the chance to meet the flight teams.

Hospitality tickets are available to purchase at www.blackjacket.uk/clacton-airshow, with prices at £65 for Thursday and £58 for Friday.

For all hospitality enquiries, including dietary requirements or area access information and facilities, contact the Black Jacket team at events@blackjacketgroup.co.uk or call 01206 827883.

RAF Red Arrows to headline both days of Clacton Airshow 2025

RAF Red Arrows to headline both days of Clacton Airshow 2025

Posted on by Web Admin

The magnificent Red Arrows will be making a thrilling return to the Essex Sunshine Coast to headline this summer’s Clacton Airshow.

The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, one of the world’s premier aerobatic display team, will perform on both days of the 32nd Clacton Airshow, taking place on 21-22 August.

Representing the speed, agility, and precision of the Royal Air Force, the team serves as the public face of the service and act as ambassadors for the United Kingdom at home and overseas.

The distinctive Hawk fast-jet team is the first flight announcement for what is shaping up to be a breath-taking airshow.

Ivan Henderson, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration, and Tourism at Tendring District Council (TDC), which organises the Clacton Airshow, said he was excited to welcome the Red Arrows back to the event.

“The Red Arrows are the stars of the airshow circuit, and I am thrilled to announce their breathtaking aerial displays will captivate the crowds at this year’s Clacton Airshow,” he said.

“They are a massive attraction for both the general public and aviation enthusiasts.”

Last year’s Clacton Airshow. Image: Roam Creative

“It will be wonderful to be able to welcome them back to Clacton following a break last year while they represented the UK in Canada.

“If you haven’t marked this year’s Clacton Airshow on your calendar yet, do it now and start planning your trip to the beautiful Essex Sunshine Coast.

“We’re working closely with our flight director to craft a spectacular flight lineup for the 2025 Clacton Airshow on 21 and 22 August.

“This year’s event promises to be an extraordinary spectacle with exhilarating aerial performances and plenty of excitement on the ground.

“We can’t wait to unveil more of our lineup in the coming months.”

Councillor Henderson revealed that the Red Arrows will also bring an exciting ground display to Clacton’s West Greensward showground.

The Red Arrows, based at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire, have flown almost 5,000 displays in 57 countries.

Often showcasing their trademark Diamond Nine shape, and a combination of close formations and precision flying, the Red Arrows have been displaying since 1965.

The Red Arrows. Image: RAF Red Arrows

All Red Arrows display pilots have flown operationally in frontline aircraft such as the advanced Typhoon, helping the Royal Air Force secure the skies every day of the year.

Other flights scheduled for this year’s Clacton Airshow will be revealed in the coming months. For updates and more information, visit www.clactonairshow.com.

Students plant trees to help boost local biodiversity in Thorpe-le-Soken

Students plant trees to help boost local biodiversity in Thorpe-le-Soken

Posted on by Web Admin

Young environmentalists have rolled up their sleeves to plant trees in Thorpe-le-Soken.

Students from Tendring Technology College’s Thorpe Campus joined forces with teachers and Tendring District Council’s (TDC) tree officer Tom Opperman to plant the ‘whips’ on public open space in The Spenndells.

The initiative saw students from the school’s Eco-Council plant a variety of species, including flower, fruit and nut trees, on Thursday, 27 March.

Pupils planting trees at The Spenndells, Thorpe le Soken. Image: TDC

These young trees, which were provided by the Tree Council, will grow into a diverse wooded area, enhancing the local ecosystem.

To give the trees the best start, the project also included the application of wood chip mulch, recycled from trees felled by TDC tree surgeons, and the council also supplied tree guards.

Councillor Mick Barry, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Public Realm, praised the students’ efforts.

Pupils planting trees at The Spenndells, Thorpe le Soken. Image: TDC

“It’s wonderful to see the pupils from Tendring Technology College getting involved in planting these trees,” he said.

“This initiative not only supports local wildlife by enhancing biodiversity with a variety of flower, fruit, and nut trees, but also educates young people about the importance of environmental stewardship.

“Championing our environment runs through everything that we do and it’s heartening to see students take pride in their local open spaces.”

The newly planted trees will provide food and shelter for many species on the TDC-owned site, contributing to the area’s natural beauty and ecological health.