Hi all

Really need your help with my new idea.  All the details now on http://www.longpier.com -  Leave a comment below.

Longpier.com is always thinking of ways to enrich the lives of people in Southend and surrounding areas, and today we're proud to announce our latest idea.

How would you like the chance to quiz your favourite local celebrity? If you could ask a question of the leader of Southend Council, what would it be? Would you like to hear from the unsung people of the borough, who work tirelessly to improve the life of others? What would you say to influential local businessmen or leading academics? What drives our talented artists and what inspires our brilliant comedians?

Today, we're launching the 'Longpier Lectures' - a series of Q&A events with fantastic people, all of whom, live and work - or have a connection - in our borough.

The idea is in its embroynic stage and we're looking for everyone to have their say on who they'd like to see and talk to, and where the lectures should be held. Should the events be free - or would you pay to see someone in a great venue? Should they be in the evening or at the weekend?

Your thoughts please?

A good idea in principle not cetain wether it would work to be honest
It would have to be free.
Although i think your ideas might be of limited interest freddied.   I certainly think  we need something for the council to be answerable to us
but then anything worth a try.

James - how about inviting the Independent Councillors to give a lecture? There are, I believe, 7 of them now and they are from all parts of the political spectrum. They don't get a lot of opportunity to speak to the electorate and I'd like to hear a bit more about how they work together and what their vision of Southend is.