A CAMPAIGN has been launched for Southend to follow in Liverpool’s and Belfast’s footsteps and re-name its airport after one of its favourite sons.

A Facebook page has been set up by fans of legendary rhythm and blues band Dr Feelgood, under the title “Rename Southend Airport Lee Brilleaux Dr Feelgood Airport”.

Brilleaux was the band’s charismatic frontman, who spent much of his childhood on Canvey but later moved to Leigh, where he was a regular drinker at the Grand Hotel, off the Broadway.

He sadly passed away from cancer in 1994.

Simon Ball, one of the fans who launched the campaign, said: “Liverpool has John Lennon Airport, Belfast has George Best, Essex should celebrate the late great Dr Feelgood vocalist by re-naming Southend International Airport.”

For the full story see Monday's paper