A POPULAR pub and music venue is on the market after the owners put it up for sale.

Dave and Fi Dulake made the announcement via social media that they were looking for new owners to take over at the Railway Hotel pub, in Clifftown Road, Southend.

In a message shared on the pub’s Facebook page, Dave said: “Hi gang.

“If you’ve heard any rumours, then sorry, I’m here to confirm, we are putting The Railway up for sale as of today.

“The asking price and details of the lease will be provided to anyone who is seriously interested.

“I can’t stress enough that we don’t intend to walk away from the pub in any other way than we want someone else to run it, take responsibility for it’s upkeep and invest some new energy and cash into it.

“We will still have an active involvement in the place, as far as gigs and promotions are concerned, if we’re needed.

“But, we’ve been here since 2007, and it’s now time to move on and concentrate on other things.

“It’s crucial to us that the right team takes it on - we have no wish to see it become a sports bar so feel free to spread the word.

“It goes without saying how much we owe to the bands and artists that have allowed us to keep going for 11 years.

“It’s been an amazing ride and we hope it can continue.

“Much love to everyone.”

The couple took over the pub in 2007 and have become an institution in the town.

Highlights from their time at the pub include introducing a completely vegetarian menu back in 2011 - a year which also saw the introduction of the Pier Festival.

Reacting to the news, Southend author Adrian Green, 71, said: “You’ve managed to create a great music and arts cultural environment as well as a fantastic community involvement.

“You’ll be missed and it won’t be the same, but I hope whatever happens, your legacy of music and community involvement will continue.”

Anyone interested in taking over the pub should contact Dave and Fi by emailing them at railwaysouthend@hotmail.com