LAUREL and Hardy are returning to Southend... in the form of a new beach hut shop opening today.

Laurelandhardygifts.com will be officially opened by mayor Derek Jarvis today, and will run until Sunday, September 2.

It is not the first time Laurel and Hardy have been associated with Southend pier, they were pictured with the pier from their rooms in the Palace Hotel in August 1952 when they performed at the Odeon Southend as part of their tour.

They were photographed on the balcony floor during their visit and their photographs decorate the walls of the hotel.

Owner Diane Pinnock moved to Southend a year ago and fell in love with the area and the iconic pier.

The shop holds a great range of gifts and souvenirs including t-shirts, mugs, caps, postcards, novelty items, prints poster, aprons and tea towels.

Councillor James Courtenay, cabinet member for growth at Southend Borough Council, said: “Laurel and Hardy’s week-long stay at the Palace Hotel in 1952 is a happy chapter in Southend’s history and one that is commemorated with a Blue Plaque at the hotel as well as reflected in some of its décor.

“However, the story is still relatively unknown.

“I’m delighted to see their story being celebrated on the pier and strongly encourage both residents and businesses come along to what promises to be a fun and engaging event.”

Laurel and Hardy, who starred in 106 short, silent and feature films during their careers, spent a week in the town in 1952 and performed two shows a day at the old Odeon, in Elmer Approach, playing to packed audiences.

Their 30-minute act, A Spot of Trouble, told the story of the duo stranded on a railway station, having missed the last train.

To commemorate the 50th anniversary of their appearance in Southend, the Saps At Sea appreciation society organised a Laurel and Hardy Convention in 2002, which was attended by 100 fans from the UK, Europe and America.

The pop up shop will open this weekend, with Laurel and Hardy lookalikes in tow.