A HALLOWEEN festival at a popular seaside attraction has got off to a thrilling start.

Families flocked to Clacton Pier for the beginning of the nine day event, which included the opening of the new Looping Star roller coaster.

Queues for the ride built up from early in the morning and continued throughout most of Saturday as visitors made sure they were one of the first to enjoy the experience.

The Looping Star is Clacton Pier’s third new ride of the year installed to mark the attraction’s 150th birthday.

The Stiles family was once again heading the bill from a small stage on the ride deck with their freaky sideshow.

The “Lobster Boy Show” runs at regular intervals each day and is provided by the Blackwater Fair.

All ages had fun in the pumpkin patch which was busy over the weekend. More than 1,000 pumpkins were ordered for the nine days - and 350 were used over Saturday and Sunday.

Pier director Billy Ball said he was delighted the festival got off to a flying start.

“It was fantastic to have the Looping Star in operation and so many people experiencing the thrill ride,” he added.

“I think it will prove a big draw and is an excellent addition to the ride deck offer, which we have been looking to improve.

“It has also been great to welcome back the Blackwater Fair – in the guise of the Stiles family - again after their self-isolation in the Jolly Roger.”

Mr Ball said things were going so well that extra pumpkins will need to be bought to get through the rest of the event so no one is disappointed.

The fang-tastic festival will run throughout half term to October 31 inclusive, followed by a free fireworks extravaganza on November 6.

There is a special £19.99 offer which includes rides, go-karts, a round of adventure golf, seaquarium, video games, a visit to the pumpkin patch and candy floss.

Anyone returning for a second visit over the period will get the deal for just £9.99.

A children’s fancy dress competition is also being staged along with a creepy colouring competition, monstrous model display, a ghost hunt pack and ghoulish good food.