Summer holiday events and entertainment are heading to Saffron Walden town centre.
Saffron Walden Town Council has announced the return of The Beach on The Common for 2023.
Back by popular demand, a beach was first set up in the town as part of celebrations for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee last year.
The 'grand opening' of the man-made beach will take place at 2.30pm on Friday, July 28.
Town mayor Cllr Heather Asker will open the beach with support from Pure Rhythm mermaids and seafolk.
Sue Raven, of Pure Rhythm, said: "The Pure Rhythm Mermaids are very excited to be returning to the Beach for it’s opening event.
"The Mer-Sisters have been away in the cold waters of the Atlantic for the past year, so are looking forward to seeing all the children again, playing in the sand and making sand-castles.
"Come and meet the Mermaids with their colourful summer tails along with their seafolk friends for a rare photo opportunity at the beach."
From Saturday, July 29 to Monday, August 28, from Tuesdays to Sundays, the beach will be open between 10am and 4.30pm.
It will be available for private hire on Monday afternoons (July 31 and August 7, 14 and 21), and can be used for birthday parties and office team building events.
Anyone interested can get in touch at events@saffronwalden.gov.uk.
Free summer holiday activities will also take place near The Beach on The Common - next to the Turf Maze - every Friday from July 28 to September 1, between 10.30am and 2.30pm.
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The Market Square will also be closed to vehicles each Friday up to and including September 1.
This is to provide café style seating and allow for a relaxed continental feel, with music performances between midday and 2pm.
A town council spokesperson said: "A big thank you to our partners - SWTC is working closely with some local music providers to bring some lunchtime entertainment to The Market Square.
"Thanks also to local sports providers for bringing some fun activities to The Common – all for our local community to enjoy.
"All that is required now is some long summer days!"
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