CLACTON Pier and Clacton’s town hall will turn purple to raise awareness of sexual abuse and sexual violence.

The landmarks will be illuminated until Sunday to mark Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week.

The initiative is being co-ordinated by the Centre for Action on Rape and Abuse - a charity working with victims and survivors of sexual violence and child sexual abuse from across north Essex.

This year is Cara’s 30th anniversary year and illuminating the landmarks is the first in a series of events planned to mark this milestone. It is also hoping to raise £30,000 in its 30th year through events, fundraising and donations.

Helen Parr, director, said: “Demand for Cara’s services has more than trebled over the last five years and we have had to grow rapidly to respond to this increased demand.

“We need to secure funding so that we can support the many victims and survivors of sexual violence and child sexual abuse who need our help - now and in the future.”

Mrs Parr said the group is delighted Colchester and Tendring councils and Clacton Pier were supporting the anniversary.

Over the past year, Cara has supported just under 1,200 adults, young people and children including 220 from the Tendring area.