RESIDENTS and business owners say Clacton is a lovely place to live.

Ron Stephenson runs The Old Lifeboat House pub in Clacton’s Marine Parade East, which is based in previously entitled “bedsite-land” Pier Ward.

He spoke out in defence of the town after a report by the Centre for Social Justice said Clacton had become a "dumping ground" for vulnerable people.

“I’ve lived here over 25 years,” Ron said.

“I just love the town.

“It’s not changed much in that 25 years, there have been new buildings here and there but the people are still the same.

“Clacton has very friendly people."

Paul Nash runs the Martello Tower Children’s Petting Zoo in Marine Parade West.

“I think it’s great in Clacton now especially along the seafront with the new Pavilion - it’s ten times better here now than it was just three years ago."