David Amess MP joined thousands of constituents in lining the streets of Southend on Friday to welcome the Olympic Torch. Braving the awful weather, throngs of well wishers were treated to an amazing spectacle, including a choir of two thousand local school children singing an especially composed anthem as the torch arrived at the seafront. Described as the ‘best by a mile’ by the organisers, the event saw local constituents and Essex born Olympic swimmer Mark Foster carry the torch through the streets.

Mr Amess said: “It was an inspirational day. I am so proud that Southend has put on such a good show and it really has set the tone for a truly memorable Olympic Games. An extra special mention should go out to the school choir who I thought were simply superb”.