Traders involved in Clacton's seafront holiday industry are counting the cost of one of the worst summers they can remember.

But they are not blaming the weather just the weathermen.

The town's restaurateurs, hoteliers and shop owners all claim business is well down and believe bleak forecasts are putting off visitors.

Vera Stone, 68, proprietor of Le Vere Hotel, said: "We have been here for 23 years and this is the worst year we've ever had."

Eugene Milton, 69, who runs The Shannon Guest House, Agate Road, blamed the television.

"Get rid of Michael Fish and Co and we'd all be fine," he added.

Other traders, such as Steve and Nick Mina, also blame the bad year on parking problems and a lack of facilities.

Steve Mina said: "When the visitors come here there's nowhere to park so they drive off again."

The family, who run the Criterion, the Pier Restaurant and Dive Fish and Chips in Marine Parade East, say it's their worst season in ten years

Published Friday August 16, 2002

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