Journalist Rachel Dixon described the beloved attraction, which dates back to the 19th century, as a 'particular paradise for families', regardless of the weather. Ellery Peak, one of the directors of Sandown Pier alongside his parents Wayne and Elizabeth Peak, said he was 'delighted' the pier has been recognised in the national newspaper. "And a massive thank you to all the regulars and holidaymakers for their custom and continued support." The Peak family have been at the helm of the pier for decades - George Peak ran the amusement side of the business from 1973 before taking on the pier from the council in 1984. Garth Pier in Bangor, Bournemouth pier, the Britannia pier in Great Yarmouth, Penarth pier, Roker pier in Sunderland, Clevedon pier, the Royal pier in Aberystwyth, Blackpool pier and Gravesend pier were also namechecked in the article.