THE winners and runners up of the 2018 Best Festive Business competition for Southend have been announced, with Salon T winning the public vote.

This year, 42 businesses entered the competition, which received more than 900 votes.

Salon T, in Sutton Road, proved to be the public’s favourite, with Tea Beside The Sea, in High Street, Shoeburyness coming second. Artability Rayleigh Road, in Leigh, came in third.

Salon T won a promotional video worth £500, made by Blatella Films, and, along with Tea Beside The Sea and Artability, was also been awarded a certificate.

The prizes were presented on Friday by mayor Derek Jarvis.

James Courtenay, Southend Council cabinet member for growth, said: “I would like to congratulate all the winners, and would like to thank all the businesses who participated in the competition.

"The festive displays have brought a real festive feel to the borough.”