A TOWNmayor claims councillors do want a new Sainsbury’s store, despite complaints its signs are “too orange” for Frinton’s beloved Connaught Avenue.

Town councillors had called for the supermarket to ditch its orange branding if it wanted a warm welcome when it opens a store in the town next year.

But Frinton Residents’ Association chairman Neil Churcher said he had no problems with the distinctive branding.

Now Frinton mayor Iris Johnson has hit back, claiming town councillors are just trying to protect the street.

“I and many town councillors welcome the advent of Sainsbury’s,” she said. “At no time did we say that they are not welcome in Frinton.

“However, any major store that wants to invest in our towns will receive the same scrutiny that is required to obtain the best possible services to residents and visitors alike.

“Those who have lived in Frinton for many years, as I have, will know that the ‘Bond Street of East Anglia’ has long gone, but that should not mean we compound this by not wanting the best for where we live.”

She added district and county planners has also ignored pleas to deal with Aboards, giant ice cream cones, chairs and tables in the street.

A spokesman for the supermarket said: “We have wanted to develop a Sainsbury’s Local in Frinton for some time, and are engaging with the town council and residents’ association on our proposals.”