After the sad news of Wilko Johnson's deather, we take at look back at the time, the former Dr Feelgood guitarist was made the face of the Southend Railway Hotel.

Back in 2013, they had replaced its traditional sign at the pub, with a huge painting of Wilko himself.

READ MORE >> South Essex music legend Wilko Johnson dies aged 75

It was well-known across Southend at the time that Wilko was a regular at the Railway and that he would also treat customers to impromptu performances during his visits.

At the time, the manager of the pub, said it was a fitting tribute to make Wilko the face, as they felt “it was an honour that he chooses to come here”.

Sadly, to the disappointment of many the Southend Railway Hotel closed in 2021 due to the “unbearable pressures” of the coronavirus pandemic.

But the site, which is still boarded up and vacant despite calls for it to reopen, is still down in the city’s history as the home to many music legends, including Wilko Johnson.

Wilko Johnson’s death was announced earlier this morning, after the official page on his behalf and his band’s confirmed the sad news.

In a tweet, they said: “This is the announcement we never wanted to make, and we do so with a very heavy heart.

“Wilko Johnson has died.

“He passed away at home on Monday, November 21.

“Thank you for respecting the family’s privacy at this very sad time.

“RIP Wilko Johnson.”

Wilko Johnson was previously diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer. But in 2014, had an 11-hour complicated operation to remove a tumour and large sections of his digestive system.

At the time, medics were amazed that despite his decision to refuse treatment, his health did not deteriorate as quickly as feared.