IT WAS 1933 when farmer's daughter Mabel Speakman opened up her land to pea and fruit-pickers who would camp by the tranquil River Blackwater with their families.
Her father's cattle would graze on the surrounding salt marshes and campers would buy eggs and milk from the family farm, and collect water from a communal well.
Now 80 years later that simple pre-war campsite has grown into a thriving family-owned business boasting acres of luxury holiday homes, six golf courses, and a collection of tipis.
Maldon Osea Leisure Park, off Goldhanger Road, celebrates the milestone birthday this year but despite its transformation over eight decades; it remains owned and operated by the same family who began the business all those years ago.
Current managing director, and great-granddaughter of Mabel Speakman, Janie Robinson said: "I have many memories of my childhood at Osea, whether these are swimming from the beach huts or spending summer in the family's caravan.
"I have particularly fond memories of running around the park on my summer holidays with my brother William. I also remember spending my Christmas holidays painting the toilet blocks ready for the next year."
Today the park is fortunate enough to have visitors who have also remained loyal for four generations bringing their families back time and time again.
Peter Gould, 72, has been visiting Osea Leisure Park for over 65 years after a first visit in 1947, and now returns most weekends with his wife.
"I was seven when I first visited Osea Leisure Park when my family purchased their first caravan at the site. It was a great place for youngsters to visit and we spent a lot of time on the beach and exploring the surroundings.
"The park has changed a lot but it has always been a nice place for families to spend time ," said the keen sailor.
Responsible for the park since 2007, Janie Robinson continues to improve facilities developing an additional 33 acres in order to provide luxury camping, a lodge tent, shepherd huts and exotic tipis.
"Diversifying our business in line with changing consumer needs – such as the trend for 'glamping' – has been an important factor in our success.
"A lot has changed since 1933, but one thing that has remained constant is the need for families to have a place where they can relax, spend time together and be close to nature. We want to offer a home-from-home environment and create the community spirit that has continued to attract holidaymakers year after year to the park. That is the true essence of Osea Leisure Park – family, friends and fun – and the reason we believe we will be equally, if not more successful, during the next 80 years.
"Over the past few years we have heavily invested in the park and its facilities.
"I can't improve the designs of caravans which are produced today, but I can design a park that makes the experience of owning one here even better."
