PREPARE yourself for dynamic drinks and sophisticated conversation because Southend is all set to hold its first Cocktail Week.

The seaside town will join some of the world’s other great cities (yes, we’re great) by hosting its inaugural Cocktail Week this autumn.

It will take place from Friday, October 18, to Sunday October 27.

Joining the likes of London, Paris, Singapore, Edinburgh and Amsterdam, Southend will be showcasing the fantastic skills and diversity of its resident mixologists and the bars they work in.

The event is the brainchild of the Southend Business Improvement District group, who want to promote the brilliant beverage scene that Southend has become home to.

“We created Cocktail Week as an opportunity for businesses operating in our night-time economy to invite their customers to try something a little bit different,” said BID manager, Suzanne Gloyne.

“Already we’ve got a number of fantastic bars in diverse locations signed up, with each one creating its own signature cocktail for the week.

“To enhance the experience for cocktail lovers, we’re also creating a special, downloadable ‘Cocktail Week Trail’ for them to follow, while posters will also be displayed by the establishments taking part.”

From the High Street to the seafront, Southend Cocktail Week will bring a chance to enjoy and sample some simply dazzling drinks – both alcoholic and completely alcohol free, as mocktails will be firmly on the menu too.

The participating venues’ signature drinks will be available to enjoy for just £5 each during the weeklong event. These include a classic Cosmopolitan at the Grosvenor Casino, the appropriately named ‘1935 Aviation’ at the Holiday Inn by Southend Airport and the James Bond-themed, ‘Maverick Martini’, available exclusively at Genting Casino on the seafront.

Meanwhile, the Pipe of Port’s ‘A Dark and Stormy Port’, promises to demonstrate that there is more to port’s versatility than a mere Cheeky Vimto or the stalwart drink of grandpas.

Other destinations taking part in Cocktail Week include the Royal Hotel, Caddies and the Park Inn with more hotels, bars and restaurants expected to be announced before the opening night on Friday, October 18.

Keep up to date with the latest information about Cocktail Week via www.visitsouthend.co.uk, liking the Facebook page @VisitSouthendonSea, or following @VisitSouthend on Twitter.