COLCHESTER Monopoly will have a very real life feel to it as it will penalise players for getting stuck in traffic in Lexden Road.

The long-awaited game was launched at the Mercury Theatre on Friday.

It sees more than 30 Colchester destinations adorn the famous London landmarks.

Launching the new edition, Emma Lodwick, games executive at Winning Moves, said: “I have had an amazing time getting to know Colchester, going through the Dutch Quarter and spending time in Castle Park.

“I would really like to welcome Colchester to the Monopoly family. I did spend a lot of time in the shops and,I have to say, I did get stuck in traffic quite a lot which is something I am sure a lot of people will have experienced.”

Chance cards order players to go back three squares as a result of Lexden Road traffic while others charge players for work they carry out on Holmwood House School.

Other cards ask players to pay-up after a meal at the Green Room, in North Hill.

Graham Barnes, a Monopoly spokesman, added: “We think it represents all that Colchester has got to offer - its heritage and its hip and happening side. Everyone knows people here love to shop, hence why we have included Fenwick’s and of course the High Street.

“We could only use one street, so the town’s thoroughfare had to be it.”

Mr Barnes also said the board had to include hair salon Alter Ego, in Church Street, and Moors beauty salon, because the team believe Colcestrians to take pride in their appearance.

He added: “It had to reflect that.”

The ceremony was opened with a performance by youth theatre group Stagecoach Kids.

Colchester mayor Julie Young said: “I am delighted to be here today and delighted that Colchester has joined the Monopoly family.”

Tim Young, Colchester councillor for culture, added: “I am sure it will be a best-seller in the lead up to Christmas.”