EXPERTS have now restored Southend’s iconic statue of Queen Victoria to near-royal spotlessness.

Staff members from specialist firm Basildon Stone have transformed the 119-year-old landmark from her previously weathered appearance.

They used a super-heated low pressure wash system and a heavy duty detergent to remove stubborn grease marks and ingrained grime.

This statue was presented to Southend by the then mayor, Bernard Wiltshire Tolhurst, to mark Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee in 1897.

She was originally stationed at the top of Pier Hill, where cheeky residents joked that it looked as if she was pointing towards the Gents toilets.

In 1962 she was moved to her present location in Clifftown Parade.

Ann Holland, portfolio holder for Culture, Tourism and the Economy, said: “It is wonderful to see this monument to our second longest-reigning monarch now in such good condition, despite her age.

“Queen Victoria was such a significant historic figure it is important to keep her statue well-preserved for many generations to come.

“Now that she has been cleaned up we will in future aim to carry out some necessary repairs too.

“We have a continuing programme of cleaning monuments and war memorials in our parks.

“It is fitting that it is Queen Victoria’s turn to be spruced up during the current joyful celebrations for the 90th birthday of our own Queen Elizabeth – who just this year overtook her earlier majesty’s longest-reigning record.”