Bar Central officially announced its arrival in Southend with a flick of hair and a flash of leg, darling.

Gay nightclub host John Quick donned his best frock and make-up to welcome the crowds to his alternative Lucy Road spot.

Men were dressed to kill in women's clothing at the "official" launch night and for a prestigious title.

Miss Southend trotted away with a £100 cheque tucked in her cleavage after being voted for by the panel of judges.

John, who hosted the show in a blond wig and stilettos, said: "I put out an advert for drag queens to take part in the contest and these five came forward.

"We asked them to get dressed up and to go out and perform to music for the guests and judges.

"We have been open for a while now but this really is the official opening night.

"We are going to see how this one goes and then think about planning some other alternative nights. The rest of the time we hold everyday club nights."

The club hit the headlines in March when it first opened its doors to the public with star act Lucy Fire - who put an axe grinder between her metal clad legs in the name of entertainment.

All the boys together? - but can you spot the young lady?

Picture: ANDY PALMER

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.