The car parks around West Mersea were full on Friday as families ... island between Clacton and the Blackwater estuary The beach at West Mersea features sand, pebbles and broken shells ...

After her husband's death, Hilka was drawn to West Mersea's immaculate beaches and ... there's something for everyone from long stretches of beach to farmland and parks, reports the Express.

While Cambridgeshire locals are spoilt for choice with many beaches in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex less than two hours away, we've chosen one beach in particular that is perfect for a winter walk.

The Little Beach Hut company rents out gloriously well ... Try Mersea Island oysters at the Company Shed, or the West Mersea ...