A PUB has honoured south Essex music legend Wilko Johnson by replacing its traditional sign with a huge painting of him!

Former Dr Feelgood guitarist Wilko, 65, is a regular at the Railway Hotel in Clifftown Road, Southend, and has been known to treat customers to impromptu performances during his visits.

Dave Dulake, who manages the Railway with wife Fiona, feels it is a fitting tribute.

He said: “I can’t think of anybody else to be the face of the pub.

“We have been at the Railway now for about six years and over the past couple of years, Wilko has become a bit of a regular. It’s an honour for us he chooses to come here.

“We showed him the sign last week because we wanted him to see it for himself and not find out about it from someone else, and he seemed to love it. I think our customers are going to be pretty happy with it, they all love Wilko.”

The hand-painted sign was created by artist Jack Melville, 55, who is also a regular customer at the Railway.

He specialises in pencil drawings and paintings of famous people.

Wilko, who found out about the sign just days before it was given pride of place at the front of the pub, said: “It’s a huge surprise and a real honour.

“The Railway Hotel is the best place to be in Southend. There is great music there and I’ve had some really fun times there.

“Everyone goes along to have a good time and just enjoy the music.”

After being diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer at the end of last year, Wilko refused further treatment, as he wanted to enjoy his remaining time.