THE FORMER landlords of a beloved Southend pub are set to embark on a 37-date tour to perform across the UK and in Europe.

Dave and Fiona Dulake, who ran the Railway Hotel in Clifftown Road until it closed in 2020, will perform as rock duo “Tuppenny Bunters” at 11 venues throughout the country.

The husband and wife hope to “carve out” a following in the UK before heading into Europe where they will perform 26 shows in coming weeks – including in Belgium, Germany and Italy. 

They started with a show at Peggy’s Music Bar in London Road, Leigh, this week, before heading north to play at Stockton-on-Tees and Stockport.

Dave, 57, said: “It’s a big deal.

“We’re also trying to carve out an audience in Europe. There’s so much more take-up for rock and roll gigs. There’s a great scene out there.

“It’s harder in England at the moment, as the music scene generally has suffered quite badly with the cost-of-living crisis. Lots of venues are shutting down.

“The live music industry needs all the help it can get. People haven’t got a lot of money to spend going out.

“Even if we’re playing for small audiences, we always have a lot of fun.”

Echo: In action - the couple performed at the Ironworks in Southend last month.In action - the couple performed at the Ironworks in Southend last month. (Image: Gaz de Vere)

Since leaving the Railway Hotel in 2020, Dave says he and his wife have “devoted” their time to their passion for music.

He said: “We ran the Railway for years, so I’ve got sympathy with venues that are struggling.

“Since we left, we’ve had more time to devote to getting out and playing music.”

Echo: Passion - Fiona and Dave have dedicated themselves to their music since leaving the Railway Hotel.Passion - Fiona and Dave have dedicated themselves to their music since leaving the Railway Hotel. (Image: Dave Dulake)

While Dave and Fiona, 39, would support the pub reopening under new management, he says they would not return to the helm.

Dave said: “The brewery wants someone to come along and take up the lease. We would definitely support it if it opened again. We’d love to put a few gigs on there.

“But we want our band to be our future. We want to travel, meet people and play for whoever’s up for it.”

A hunt to find a new pub operator has been launched by owner Star Pubs and Bars.