A passion for the pier has led Southenders Chris Jones and Jack Forbes to sing in its support.

The duo are booked to appear at the Preview Music Club tomorrow in a programme of Southend songs.

The performance will replace one originally planned for May that had to be cancelled due to ill health.

Chris and Jack formed their duo Piertalk in 1987.

The name was given to them by Jack's youngest son Daniel after they played their first gig at the end of Southend Pier.

The pair write and perform their own material such as Leigh Town Regatta and Save Our Pier.

"I have strong feelings about the pier," explained Chris. "I don't think it needs a grandiose scheme, it needs a bit of tender loving care.

"It's dilapidated - in an appalling state. It gives the wrong message. It looks as though Southend doesn't care. If my house looked like that I would want to hide!

"A lot could be done with a bit of paint and small amount of woodwork to make it welcoming."

In the past the pair have appeared on a Radio 4 Archive Documentary and have performed live on the end of the Pier for a Radio 5 programme.

They still appear from time to time on BBC Essex.

Piertalk will be performing at Preview Music Club, Spread Eagle, Prittlewell, tomorrow from 8pm. Entrance is free.

Songs of the seaside - Chris Jones and Jack Forbes will perform at Preview tomorrow

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