AN historic port town has been named one of the best places to live in the UK by a respected annual report.

Wivenhoe is included in the list of Best Places to Live in Britain which is compiled by the Sunday Times.

The town is in the top 12 places picked out in the east of England.

The guide assesses a wide range of factors from jobs, schools and broadband speed to culture, community spirit and shops.

An expert panel of judges also visit the place in with a chance of making the guide to provide first hand experience but also combine their findings with robust statistics.

According to the guide, the average price for a starter home in Wivenhoe is £135,730, the average mid-market house could fetch £322,090 while a family house is usually priced at £480,560.

Rental prices start at £590 per month, with middle-sized home attracting a £990 monthly rental income while larger houses can attract prices up to £1,470 per month.

Mayor Mike Newton moved to the area more than three decades ago and said the town had something for everyone.

He said: “I’ve stayed here for 31 years and now my children have settled here which tells you what type of place it is.

“It has good links to London and you can leave work, spend an hour on the train but it is like you are in a different world.

“It is so calm and peaceful.

“Some people come here purely for the activities they can do outdoors - yachting, boating or even cycling.

“The schools are good as well.

“There are lots of community groups and so many volunteers who are willing to help out with their time.”

Deputy mayor Robert Needham hailed the town for how community spirited it is and said he was not surprised to see it was included in the list.

He said: “I was born and bred in Wivenhoe, left to pursue a career and came back when I retired and have now been back for ten years.

“Beyond that we have got a terrific river scene and all of the maritime activities which are connected to that.

“I’m not surprised it has made the list.”

The other places in Essex included on the list are Saffron Walden and Chelmsford and the city was named as the outright best place to live in the whole of the eastern region.

Sunday Times Home editor Helen Davies said: “Choosing the right location to put down roots is one of the most important decisions you’ll make..

“There is much to celebrate. Britain is scattered with thriving towns and villages, cool cities and suburbs, though people may be surprised traditional favourites haven’t made the cut.”