Southend fashion stylist and designer Joey Bevan has an unconditional love for Essex. Born and bred in Basildon, the 35-year-old, who now lives in Leigh on Sea with his dog Buddy, believes there is no place in the world he would rather call home.
‘I have lived in Somerset, London and lots of different places across the UK, but since I was 18 years old I have lived around this area, and it just feels like me,’ says Joey. ‘I’m a beach boy, I like kayaking and we have the longest pleasure pier in the world, so what more could you want?’ he laughs.
Sharing his Essex knowledge left, right and centre during our conversation, Joey could definitely give a local tourist guide a run for their money and despite his growing fame as an inspirational designer, Joey remains a down-to-earth Essex boy – cheeky, chatty and charming.
‘Leigh is like Kensington by the sea. Well, that is what I call it anyway,’ he laughs. ‘It is a little bit bougie, with nice places to drink and eat. But if you want to get great fish and chips, go to Oldhams of Westcliff. That is why I love living in a seaside town, it just has an atmosphere of coolness. I love London too, and a lot of my week is spent there, but it only takes me 40 minutes to get in to the city.’
This story is from the September 2020 edition of Essex Life.
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This story is from the September 2020 edition of Essex Life.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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