Some pics from the VIP preview of Twenty One Southend - a new cafe and cultural venue on Southend seafront. The cultural programme will be managed by Focal Point Gallery and is another reason to Visit Southend. Like and tell us who you will bring?

We're at the VIP preview of Twenty One - a new cafe and cultural venue opening on Southend seafront.

**NEWS** Five Southend parks have been recognised as some of the best in the world. Chalkwell, Belfairs, Priory, Shoebury and Southchurch parks are among 1,797 UK parks and green spaces that have been awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award - the mark of a quality park or green space. This international award is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible environmental standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent visitor facilities. Cllr Ann Holland, Executive Councillor for Culture, Tourism and the Economy, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive Green Flag Awards again this year. “We know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors, and this award celebrates the dedication that goes into maintaining all of our parks and open spaces to such a high standard." Southend also boasts blue flags for three of its beaches, seven seaside awards and purple flags for the management of its nighttime economy. Keep Britain Tidy Make Southend Sparkle Visit Southend Visit Essex

It's the first week of the Summer Holiday and there's so much to do! Take a look at our events page for ideas:

Here's a sneak preview of what you'll see at the public Launch of Twenty One at 6pm on 27 July opposite Southend Pier. The long-vacant unit has been re-imagined as a seafront cafe and cultural venue and will kick off with an exhibition of local art in A4 format. The cultural programme will be managed by Focal Point Gallery and will include art exhibitions, small performances and live performance poetry.

There are only six days left for you to nominate for STARS 2017, our annual staff recognition event. Has a member of staff gone the extra mile for you recently? Do you know someone that really deserves to be nominated for their outstanding work? Has someone made a real difference in the service they provide? Please tell their story and give examples. We have had over 230 nominations so far (not counting paper nominations) but we would like even more. Everyone that is nominated will receive a letter from their Director saying well done and thanks, and some will be shortlisted to become finalists at the STARS event on 10 November 2017. Don’t leave it too late – the deadline for nominations is 31 July 2017!

Learn to dive at our Olympic-standard pool.

**FEATURE** The recent refusal of planning permission for the redevelopment of the Grand Hotel split local opinion. Here, Cllr Mark Flewitt explains why the Council is right to challenge developers to protect special buildings.

Starting this Saturday is the fabulous Only Fools and Horses Costume Exhibition on Southend Pier. Don't miss this opportunity to see iconic costumes from the original series, open daily from 10:30am - 5pm. Cushty!

Fantastic picture from the Southend Parks Team, with a little update on the Priory Park gates.

Oh buoy we can't wait to step aboard the Tall Ship Mercedes this weekend. Be shore to stop by Southend Pier as the Mercedes is an experience knot to be missed ⚓