A quintet of sunseekers undertook an extensive journey along the Sunshine Coast line towards the north-Essex town of Walton-on-the-Naze, for some sun, sea and pies.

After a lengthy time on the rails, some of us were keen to stretch our legs and engage in a spot of seaside sports.

With some time to spare before luncheon, we then took a ramble around town. This area notably boasts a mixture of eclectically named shops.

Before long the lunch-hour was nigh, we descended on the premises of the town’s esteemed p&m emporium Whites, which has been serving generations of locals since 1981.

Although 11 and a half years have passed since our last trip here in November 2010. Like a time capsule, this shop looks remarkably unchanged.

Being near the coast, it’s hard not to resist a bowl of eels. These delectable fishy steaks were complemented by a flavourful and luscious liquor.

Complimentary morsels of bread were at hand, to help soak up the residual juices.

Nearly a year has passed since the club’s poster boy Edward Mosse last dined with us. After such a lengthy gap, he was poised and ready like a praying mantis, as he prepared to take down his scran.

Nick Evans prefers to take the more leisurely approach as he paced himself through the portions. He eventually made it to Pie Island, where he plundered its bountiful resources of pastry and mince.

As I sat down to table, I was literally seeing double as Keith Allwright was similarly attired in green. This sartorial choice in clothing is popular among dyed-in-the-wool pie & mash aficionados who seek to emulate the colour of their food.

The craggy landmasses of pies stood out in the expanses of the liquor seascape. Despite looking a tad overdone, the filling was otherwise juicy and delectable. A touch of pepper helped give them some added piquancy.

Terry Moore endured a perilous voyage along the rail network as he endured a multitude of mistimed connections before he eventually reached his destination. After this stressful experience, he was keen to wind down with a mountain of stodge.

Shop manager Doug has a long association with this shop, having dined here since infancy, then subsequently joining the staff. You could say he was literally reared by his profession.

A series of arched displays line the counter area with a range of enticing offerings for the discerning customer.

This fabulous display of miniature sized chilli-vinegar bottles would make a great addition to any dolls house sized pie & mash shop.

Our choice of afters was limited to just apple pie and ice cream. After several minutes waiting, we were presented with our bounty. Filled to the brim with apples then covered with a glazed topping, it looked closer to a tarte-tatin in appearance.

With the 50th anniversary of the film Jaws fast approaching. Mosse was keen to re-enact the climatic sequence when the shark eats Quint’s boat. By the rate he was ferociously tearing through his food, it looked like we were going to need to a bigger plate.

His fellow seafarer, Moore, found it hard to resist his excitement as he prepared to round off his meal with a rousing finale.

The staff were genial and helpful; overall, we enjoyed the friendly and hospitable atmosphere at this establishment, it is easy to see why this place is popular with locals.

Doug was ably assisted in the day-by-day running of the good ship Whites by his crewmates, Ruby, Aiden and son Seth.

Anchors aweigh.

We soon set sail for The Victory, for some post-luncheon tipples. This back-street local dates back to the 18th century, and it has retained many of its original features including separate private and saloon bars. A plethora of nautical themed bric-a-bac lined the walls, in keeping with the pub’s seafaring theme.

The sun was high in the sky as we promenaded down the seafront through scores of beach-huts on the way towards Frinton. Isn’t it great to be beside the seaside.

MG