In the same way that Irish jokes are similar to Polish jokes are similar to Ostfriesland jokes etc, "Essex girl" jokes are almost indistinguishable from "blonde" jokes.

As a denizen of Essex for most of my life, I protest that these so-called jokes are an unwarranted slur on the flower of East Saxon maidenhood. Essex is the second-largest county in England, and suffers from its proximity to London. It is at the London side of the county (Ilford, Romford, Chigwell and environs) that the fabled white stilettos, pink tracksuits and gold medallions are to be found, if at all. By the time you get to Brentwood, less than a third of the way across the county, they are very seldom seen. Even in Harlow, where Kevin McGrath and I have the honour to reside, the influence of the great wen is beginning to fade.

Essex is a great County, and no Kentish Man or Man of Kent should be allowed to impugn it - especially not if his hame is Bryant!!!

Watch your step if you come through Essex to Chapmore End, Dave!! I'd go round via Hatfield if I were you!

(My wife and daughters said I had to write this)

Alan