COLCHESTER residents keen to defend their home have rubbished data finding the city is the unhappiest place in the UK.

According to the most recent data from the Office of National Statistics, Colchester has the unenviable title of “unhappiest place in the UK”.

The survey revealed people said they are generally not satisfied with life in the newly-crowned city, with fewer residents reporting they think things done in life are worthwhile than ever.

With an average happiness score of 6.8 out of ten, the city is down in the dumps compared to neighbouring Babergh at 7.8 and Braintree at 7.7.

Second from the bottom was Redditch, in north-east Worcestershire, famous for its Needles Museum.

Sir Bob Russell, Colchester’s High Steward and former MP, conceded the city “is not a utopia”, but was quick to defend the area.

“I am more than happy living in Colchester,” he said.

“If people are unhappy here then perhaps they should move somewhere else. They may find they have made the wrong move.

“If Colchester is an unhappy place, why are so many people wanting to move here?

“There is always room for improvement. Colchester is not utopia.

“Perhaps if unhappy people involved themselves more in the life of the community they would feel happier. I have yet to meet an active community participant who is unhappy.”

Many readers commented on the negativity often espoused by Colchester residents.

Valerie Saunders said: “It is surrounded by wonderful countryside and beaches, it has a castle, arts centre, theatre and some nice eateries.

“I agree that it needs to capitalise on its Roman roots - the shops, like anywhere, are disappointing, but for a mooch about it offers a lot.”

Joanna Lynne said: “I love it. I moved from Eastbourne to here, I’ve lived in Highwoods for 18 years, moved to town centre now and the community spirit here is actually great.

“The cycle paths are really handy too, rarely use the car so I escape the gridlock.”

Eva Marie Cukelj said: I moved here a year ago from Southend and we love it here.

“It’s so good for families and there’s always something going on.

“I’ve travelled all over the world for eight years – me and my partner – and think it’s perfectly fine.

“There are so many worse places then here.”