Presenting a live radio show can bring all sorts of unpredictable fun and games but occasionally the news of something horrible can really stay with you. I was live on air the day the events that took Sir David Amess’ life unfolded and as I headed home to Southend that evening the world seemed a very cruel place. In the days that followed it was agreed that Southend would be granted city status in memory of Sir David and as anyone familiar with the area knows, this had been a passion and constant effort for years – it was really quite moving to know that it would finally happen… and now it has!

So, as Prince Charles and Camilla were in attendance I was, again, live on air – this time with a poem to celebrate Southend-on-sea:

“A city built on kindness,
By the people of Southend,
Lovingly acknowledged,
As the nation’s seaside friend.”

To hear the full poem click play below.

For more of Stewart’s shows, interviews, poems and reviews, to submit your music for airplay or to check out Stewart’s comedy and books visit www.stewartpink.com.