THE owner of a seaside kiosk is battling the council for the second year over beach furniture.

Ray Mason, who runs the Sunray's Kiosk on East Terrace, Walton, puts six tables out on the beach each summer season.

Last year, the Gazette reported how he felt victimised by Tendring Council after he was told he would either have to take them away or pay £1,500 each year in rent.

His argument was that because other establishments in the area are free to do put furniture outside, he should be allowed to do so as well.

Now, he has been told he will be closed down if he puts out his tables and chairs this summer.

"Nigel Brown, Tendring Council's communications manager, said Mr Mason has a lease for a seafront kiosk and deckchair station.

"The lease is to operate from the kiosk and no permission has ever been given in writing for him to put tables and chairs on the beach for the exclusive use of his customers," he said.

"I can confirm that the council has written to Mr Mason in the past week or so to reinforce that fact."