Bosses at a major entertainment complex in Clacton have reassured customers and neighbours about safety after asbestos was discovered in the building.

The Gala Club, which operates the bingo hall and Flicks cinema in Pier Avenue, made the find when work was due to be carried out on major improvements.

Contractors have been working in the club to remove the asbestos, operating during the night with the building open to customers during the day.

They hope it will be finished in a matter of weeks.

A spokeswoman for Gala Clubs said there was no reason for concern about the asbestos found during a refurbishment programme.

She said: "We are putting in a new diner and other improvements as part of the upgrade."

Michael Moody, who lives nearby in Old Road, said he had complained to Tendring Council and the police about the noise coming from the work which had gone on until midnight - and that had since been sorted out.

"We are very worried about the health and safety aspects of the work for us and customers," said Mr Moody.

"I would have thought it would have been better if they closed the whole place down while the work was being carried out, and safer for everyone," he said.

By Nigel Brown

Reporter's e-mail: nigel_brown@thisisessex.co.uk

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