British seaside resorts plunge into scandal

They are the wholesome, family-friendly resorts where generations have made the most of the British summertime complete with Punch and Judy shows, striped deckchairs and entertainment on the pier.

But now Britain’s beach resorts have been plunged into scandal after Skegness was accused of resorting to a ‘dirty tricks’ campaign to lure tourists from other popular beach resorts.

A series of adverts has been released by the Lincolnshire beach town showing graffiti on buildings in Blackpool and Brighton and declaring ‘For sights you’ll want to remember, visit Skegness’.

The two resorts targeted by the campaign have voiced criticism at the so-called underhand tactics used by Skegness.

But the local council has described the adverts as nothing more than ‘friendly rivalry’.

James Gilbert, of East Lindsey Council, which commissioned the posters, said: ‘We’re not trying to upset anyone, it’s a bit of friendly rivalry.

‘We want to challenge people’s perceptions and showcase the amazing art, culture, dance, theatre and music that is staged in the town.’

He added: ‘Obviously, Brighton and Blackpool attract more visitors than Skegness and we are not seeking to insult anyone who lives there or visits there. We are not trying to upset anyone, it’s a bit of friendly rivalry.’

Brighton receives eight million visitors a year, double the four million that visit Skegness.

And 13 million holidaymakers flock to Blackpool each each year.

Mary Mears, Brighton’s former city council leader, said: ‘There’s a big difference – people who visit Skegness maybe would not want to go again whereas we get lots of repeat customers in Brighton.’

Last year, Blackpool was described in the Lonely Planet guide as ‘good family fun – if you immerse yourself in the whole tacky spectacle’.