THE Duke of Kent will today rename the new £3million cultural centre at the end of Southend Pier.

The Queen’s cousin will carry out the formal ceremony after opening the new lifeboat station in Western Esplanade, Southend.

Southend Council has refused to reveal the centre’s new name as it wants it to be a surprise.

But some have called for cultural centre to be ditched and for it to be called simply the pier pavilion.

Mayor Brian Kelly said: “We are honoured to welcome our royal guest for this very special occasion.

“Southend Pier Cultural Centre has proved such a triumph we are delighted to have such a distinguished visitor to give it the royal seal of approval.”