THE story of Holland-on-Sea’s lost estuary has been told as part of history project.

The Clacton Victoria County History Group were at Holland Haven on Friday to unveil a new information sign telling the history of the former Gunfleet Estuary.

The group commissioned the board, which has been sited on the seafront at the Holland Haven Country Park, as part of its project to investigate the history of the lost river “It contains a wealth of interesting facts and information about this former medieval trading estuary,” said the group’s mentor Dr Chris Thornton.

“It is highlighting the historical importance of the area, which has changed dramatically since the 16th century, when all along the Essex coast there were quays, wharves and landing places like this that were vital to local industry.

“The estuary was used by small vessels to take local produce such as corn, hay, cheese and timber to the London markets.

“The return cargoes brought back manure fromthe capital to enrich the soil, and sometimes chalk which could be converted into lime to treat the soil, a valuable resource for local farmers.”

The group’s project is aimed at encouraging local people to learn about the historical importance of the site.

He added: “Around the later 17th century it was decided to reclaim the estuary by constructing a sea wall across its mouth.

“The reclaimed former estuary is nowused for leisure pursuits, including the Holland Haven Country Park and the Frinton Golf course.”

Funding and support for the project was provided by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the VCH Essex Trust, the Hervey Benham Trust and Tendring Council.

Chairman of the group Roger Kennell said: “We had a two year project in which we researched the estuary.

Very little was known about it.

“It was silted up in 17th Century, but in Napoleonic times it was very important and there was a Martello Tower here.

“Most of work we did was documentary with sources at Essex Records Office, but there was lots of evidence of trading using the estuary.

“We have put the board so people know this area is part of our local history.”

To find out more about the history of the estuary, visit victoriacountyhistory.ac.uk/essex