RADIO Six DJ Steve Lamacq said they were the "lords of toddler metal"... now they are coming to Southend to play a 'heavy metal gig for kids'.

Yes folks, Slay Duggee - five men wearing big furry dog heads - are coming to The Venue this Sunday.

The gig takes place from 1pm until 3pm at the club next door to The Cricketers Pub in London Road, Westcliff.

Lead singer, Ricky Bow-Wow, is from Southend, and is said to therefore be "even more hyped than usual to play".

A spokesman for the band said: "The My First Metal Gig show has given thousands of kids around the UK their first taste of live gigs and heavy music in a safe environment.

"Slay Duggee explain how gigs work, how to head bang, mosh, circle pit, and play full on heavy metal versions of kids favourites like Baby Shark, Stick, Paw Patrol and Going On A Bear Hunt.

"The show's concept has been praised for its inclusivity and accessibility.

"It is suitable for all ages and loved by children and adults alike. Ear protection for kids is mandatory. The band explain how gigs work in between songs, which audience members with autism, social anxiety and SEN have found welcoming."

In August 2019, Slay Duggee's first live gig My First Metal Gig at the Craufurd Arms, Milton Keynes sold out within two hours.

They formed in January 2018 to release a heavy metal version of the Stick Song from The Stick Badge episode of Hey Duggee, a CBeebies TV program for children.

The Slay Duggee version was released within 48 hours of the original being broadcast, and was featured on Lamacq's radio show shortly afterwards.

Also in 2018, Slay Duggee collaborated on a cover version of Everything Is Awesome from The Lego Movie and in the same year, released a Christmas single Walking in the Air with singer Daniel Tompkins from Tesserac-T. They also completed a successful Kickstarter campaign to fund the album Kids Love Metal.

Edz Kidz over ear protectors are available for youngest kids, available on first come first served basis.

The show is standing only and recommended from two years and up.

All tickets are £8 for children and adults available from https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Southend-on-Sea/The-Venue/