SOUTHEND’S iconic Cliff Lift is an “important asset to the city”, according to one volunteer who has given up her time to allow people to take a ride on the 111-year-old attraction.

Volunteers have spoken out on the importance of the Cliff Lift after a letter in the Echo sparked a social media storm when a reader suggested the lift should be shut to help Southend Council tackle its budget deficit.

When it opened back in August of 1912, it was branded a state-of-the-art addition to the then town.

Echo: Vintage - an old postcard describes the Cliff Lift as the “electric stair”Vintage - an old postcard describes the Cliff Lift as the “electric stair” (Image: Archives)

It came as councillors were getting bombarded with complaints from residents, tourists and workers about wanting a much smoother way of getting up Clifton Terrace  from Western Esplanade.

Echo: Work - this photograph was taken in 1930 as improvements to the lift were being madeWork - this photograph was taken in 1930 as improvements to the lift were being made (Image: Archives)

Echo: Spectacular view - the top of Clifton Terrace looking over Western Esplanade and the Thames EstuarySpectacular view - the top of Clifton Terrace looking over Western Esplanade and the Thames Estuary (Image: Suzy Melville)Owned by the council, it runs on a single track, which is 40m long and the highest point being at 17m and carries 12 people.

Last June, it was recognised as a site of historical importance to national transport heritage with a Red Wheel plaque.

Echo: Event - the red plaque presentation back in June Event - the red plaque presentation back in June (Image: Suzy Melville)

For volunteer and Southend resident Suzy Melville, 70, it was “how cool and exciting” the thought of operating the attraction for many people to experience that made her sign up in August 2020.

Echo: Inside - the Cliff Lift carInside - the Cliff Lift car (Image: Suzy Melville)

She said: “In the last year, 20,000 people travelled on the Cliff Lift, which is just amazing.

“It’s such an important asset to the city because it allows those who might have a disability or have trouble walking up heights that ease of being whisked up to the top of the cliff.

Echo: Historic - the Cliff LiftHistoric - the Cliff Lift (Image: Suzy Melville)“I’ve heard many people say they didn’t know the Cliff Lift was here, and that saddens me because it’s been in the city for 111 years and tells me it doesn’t get the publicity it deserves.

“I can’t wait to welcome more people to the Cliff Lift in the future.”

It is open from 10.30am until 3pm daily but is dependant on volunteer availability, with more being sought to join the team.

If you are interested visit during opening hours and speak to a lift operator.