I have noticed a dramatic drop in the number of people visiting the local pubs and clubs in Clacton over the last 18 months or so.

I’m not alone in noticing this, I’m sure, but it’s sad to see.

I can remember when some pubs were ten-deep at the bar and it took 15 minutes to get served on a Saturday night in the good old days.

Now that the recession, as well as the smoking ban, have really kicked in, we have to remember to go out on the town of a weekend, just once in a while, to keep the local nightlife and bingo halls afloat as well as our spirits (no pun intended).

Remember, people’s jobs are at stake, and where would the tourists entertain themselves in the summer if these places closed?

So, I call on the people of Clacton to go out and paint the town red. It’s nearly the party season after all.

There are lots of drink offers about and great theme nights – not forgetting New Year’s Eve!

Lisa Palmer
Victory Road
Clacton