Leigh-on-Sea

Leigh-on-Sea is a town in southeast Essex, England. Since 1913, it has been administered as part of the Borough of Southend-on-Sea, (the centre of which is located three miles to the east), but has retained a distinct identity. In 1996, it became a civil parish, and a town council was created, funded by an increased council tax rate in the area. The parish, which is the only in Southend, had a population of 20,737 according to the 2001 census.

Leigh-on-Sea was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as Legra. Located next to the sea, Leigh has been primarily a fishing village for most of its history. However, its sheltered position at the mouth of the Thames gave it some success as a port, with international trade and a shipbuilding business. The Mayflower may have been built in Leigh-on-Sea; it was certainly fitted out there.

Cockle Boats in Old Leigh

The arrival of the London, Tilbury and Southend Railway in 1851 spurred the town's development, allowing greater trade with London and the rest of the world, and making it a commuter town for London workers.

It has a thriving artistic community, and holds an annual Art Trail where local and invited international artists show their works in the area's shops and cafes. Furthermore, a proliferation of trendy bar-cafés, restaurants, galleries and studios along The Broadway (the main shoping street) has served to give the town a more 'upmarket' feel than its larger neighbour to the east.

Leigh Regatta is held over one weekend in September and draws crowds from around Essex to its celebration of seafood and maritime games, such as climbing the greasy pole and tug-of-war. It is organised by the three Sea Scout Groups based in the Old Town to raise funds for local Scouting and a nominated charity.

Leigh-on-Sea is the setting of Tim Bowler's book Midget.

The Evening Standard newspaper, issued on August 8, 2006 named Leigh-On-Sea the best place to live within the South-East of England, ahead of Bishop's Stortford.