For those who get an error message when trying to open the link - copy the url and paste it into a new tab/window.

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Dammit, here's a link that works.

scodger your bunneh is both cute and cheeky beyond what ought to be allowed.

So, essexjan, Last night, at my brother's, one of our friends shows up and we got to talking about his recent trip to England. I asked where he went, like I would know where that was, but anyway... It was Cornwall, if you are interested. I said I knew someone in England, and she is soooo interesting, and always posts the neatest stuff... He asked where she was from and I said Essex. He laughed and said "Oh, an Essex Girl". I asked what does that mean? He said I should ask you, but mind you might be offended. I said what do they play fast and loose? He laughed and nodded his head once. I said, Not my Jan! I hope you are entertained and not offended by my story Jan (I invented fast and loose).

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OK, in order to understand the 'Essex Girl' jokes, you need to know a little about the geography and demographic of Essex.

Essex is to London what New Jersey is to NYC. Like Jersey, the parts of Essex that are along the river Thames are industrial, ugly and generally lack anything in the way of attractive amenities or culture. The biggest Ford plant in Europe used to be along the river at Dagenham and further along the Thames Estuary is Southend-on-Sea, which is a really run-down and trashy seaside resort.

But further north into Essex, again like Jersey, the picture changes and there is beautiful countryside, agriculture and farming and some beautiful coastline.

An 'Essex Girl' is from the Essex towns closest to London - Romford, Ilford, Dagenham, Barking, Harlow, Brentwood, and has her equivalent in the 'Jersey Girl' - big hair (always blonde, always bleached), short skirt, white shoes, fake tan, fake nails, chews gum, thick as two short planks and with very low morals.

'Essex Man' again has his Jersey equivalent - a bit of a 'wise guy' - flashy, tasteless, makes his money by 'ducking and diving', and has lots of mates who could do you serious harm if you upset him.

So the Essex Girl thing is a bit of a stereotype. I'd like to say they don't really exist, but there are all too many of them.

Another funny post, Essexjan. And it's true about Jersey, just like you said. 'Tho many of the "Joisey" girls are transplanted "New Yawkers".
And Scodger, what an adorable picture!

I think this thread should be the inspiration for next Photo Friday. Show us your tongues!

Yeah, Photo Friday Tongue Shots!