Rail watchdogs have called for better services to the Tendring coast.
The Rail Passengers Committee believes companies are behind the times and need to get up to date.
It feels there needs to be a major improvement in services to Clacton and Walton.
Derek Langslow, committee chairman, said research showed Clacton's final service from London is only 10.15pm during the week and even earlier - 10pm at weekends. Services to Walton end at 9.15pm from London.
"This makes a night out in the capital a tricky proposition," he said.
"Clacton is a growing community, its population is expected to rise by ten per cent over the next ten years.
Mr Langslow said the committee was demanding improvements.
The Rail Passengers Committee Eastern England is the statutory consumer organisation protecting and promoting passengers' interests.
It has published a report looking at early-morning and late-night trains between London and Eastern England and serving towns close to major regional centres.
Mr Langslow said much of the present pattern of rail services derives from British Rail days in the mid 1980s, and sometimes much earlier.
"Working patterns are often different now, while leisure and shopping activities now extend over much longer periods each day," he said.
"Passenger numbers have grown substantially since privatisation. Growth and promotion of underused trains needs to be encouraged."
Published Tuesday, April 29, 2003
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