The first day out of the Broadhurst era brings an ironic yet apt trip to the outer reaches of the Thames estuary.

Apt, because Southend is hometown to “The Piranhas” whose song “Tom Hark”, is the well worn home-goal celebration music, heard ad-nausium at Walsall away games under the previous manager.

Ironic, because hopefully the spiritual home of the cockney jolly boys outing will witness the end to our team bus resembling one.

If you are hell bent on sampling the tacky delights of the front “you could all head down to the Esplanade where the lager tastes like lemonade”, and gaze across to the Isle of Sheppey wondering how such expensive drinks could contain so little alcohol. Seriously, unless its fresh air you’re after, don’t bother because….there are some nice pubs and a great chippy, right by the ground.

Nearest station is Prittlewell (trains from Liverpool St), nearest pub to the station being the rather strange smelling Railway Tavern. Avoid and head down to the Blue Boar, a grand corner bar next to the pedestrian crossing on the way to the ground. Here you can enjoy a pint of Flowers and unusually, some Thai food.

If you prefer more traditional fayre there are two pubs just yards apart on Victoria Avenue just two minutes from the ground. The Golden Lion is the favourite for away fans, although the adjacent and more home orientated Spread Eagle is also fairly relaxed.

Both bars boast big screen sport coverage and pool tables but the Spread Eagle has a far more impressive range of ales, including Highgate Mild!

Terry Jeffreys, secretary of the Shrimpers Trust, has contacted UTS to say “Shrimpers Bar doesn’t let away fans in any more, unfortunately. It’s become too popular to get everyone in. On Monday, the Spread only had Greene King IPA and Fullers London Pride on. I haven’t seen Highgate Mild on for ages, mores the pity.”

For your seaside fish and chips (or jellied eels if you prefer) try the Fish House chip shop is across the road from the Golden Lion/Spread Eagle near to the traffic lights heading back towards Prittlewell station.