Jonny Manning outside Manning's Amusements

TOURISM businesses need to adapt if they are still going to attract trade to the seaside, according to a resort’s funfair boss.

Jonny Manning, co-owner of Manning’s Amusements, in Sea Road, Felixstowe, said the resort’s fortunes will not turn around overnight but he has been encouraged by the number of people spending their money in the town this year.

“It hasn’t been any better than last year and the last few years have been fairly bad,” he said. “But we are not expecting a sudden turnaround – you just need to adapt.”

He and his brother Charlie have just been granted planning permission to use their new arena building at the park for a series of extra events. It means they can branch out and stage entertainment evenings such as martial arts competitions, boxing events and music nights, between 9am and 11.30pm.

The pair are now looking at a programme and possible bookings for next year.

The park has also been given a makeover this year with a new coat of paint.

“The last few years haven’t been brilliant and the Easter period really was not good for us,” said Mr Manning.

“But since the weather has improved, and the kids have been on holiday, things have improved.

“August was better than July as the weather got warmer.

“There seemed to be quite a lot of people around when the weather was good and the beach has been busy and that is good to see. It makes you happy with the way things are going.”

n How do you think Felixstowe traders could do better? Write to Your Letters, Ipswich Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, IP4 1AN, or send an e-mail to starletters@archant.co.uk