RESIDENTS across north Essex are being offered a special discount for an exclusive spa in Thorpe as a “thank you” for their loyalty.

The Lifehouse Spa and Hotel, in Frinton Road, Thorpe, is offering the scheme to residents and businesses in the CO postcode area who want to use its restaurant and spa.

The scheme, which gives locals a 10 per cent discount, can also be used on spa treatments.

The spa said the loyalty card scheme is seen as a key way for rewarding local people and businesses for their “strong support”.

Executive chef Ugo Simonelli said: “My passion is preparing superb cuisine using only the freshest local ingredients.

“We have a tremendous amount of support here from local people, which is why we have developed this loyalty card scheme as a special thank you.”

Thorpe residents have been fighting against controversial plans for hundreds of homes on rural land around the spa.

Tendring Council had turned down plans by owner Donald Emslie for up to 200 homes, an eight-acre park, landscaping and a new access road.

But Thorpe Hall Leisure has now appealed against the council’s decision and a planning inquiry will take place.