SUN-SEEKING residents gave recovering pubs and tourist attractions a much-needed boost during a sizzling bank holiday weekend.

Publicans across north Essex were handed a boost following months of lockdown measures.

Punters and patrons made their way to the countryside and coastlines to soak up the sun, with temperatures reaching a pleasant 20-plus degrees.

Clear skies meant residents flocked to Tendring’s beaches.

For Paul Milsom, who owns Le Talbooth in Dedham and the Pier in Harwich, it was a “bumper” bank holiday.

“It’s been absolutely fantastic,” he said. “To have things at last moving in our direction with the weather and the fact we can serve indoors is brilliant.

“There has been a real feeling of optimism brought by the sun and it’s been great to see everyone having a good time.

“I have all my staff back now and they’re doing a fantastic job, working in this weather with a mask on is very difficult.

“It’s been fantastic week, and long may it continue.”