A CAMPAIGNER has contacted TV bosses in an effort to keep film-makers out of Jaywick.

Residents were left angry after a string of benefits-based documentaries were filmed in Jaywick showing a “negative” portrayal of the area.

Ian Gunn launched a petition at the end of last year in an attempt to stop shows focusing on deprived residents.

It was signed by more than 1,100 people and has now been sent off to TV regulator Ofcom.

Mr Gunn said Jaywick had taken a serious hit as a result of the documentaries.

He has also drawn Ofcom’s attention to police concerns that the shows have played a part in attracting outof- town drug dealers to the area to prey on vulnerable people.

“l have lodged a complaint with Ofcom which is currently being processed, and have made them aware of the police commander’s concerns,”

he said.

“We want to see broadcasting stopped here because it has had a really negative impact on our community.

“The police commander’s concerns add weight to the efforts I’m making on behalf of the Jaywick people.

“The owner of Corner Lodge care home has also made a complaint, and estate agents will agree that the value of property in Jaywick has taken a serious hit since these programmes have been relentlessly broadcast.

“MP Douglas Carswell has also supported our cause wholeheartedly.”

Production companies decided to focus on the Brooklands area of Jaywick due to its status as the most deprived area in the country.

Mr Gunn added: “What started as documentaries turned into a sort of soap opera on the lives of real people in our area.

“We just want to stop them coming back time after time.

“Now we just have to wait for Ofcom to process what we have submitted and see what they say.”