FELIXSTOWE'S state-of-the-art bingo hall, which has undergone a £1 million-plus refurbishment, is today the best in the country, according to its owner Patrick Duffy.

FELIXSTOWE'S state-of-the-art bingo hall, which has undergone a £1 million-plus refurbishment, is today the best in the country, according to its owner Patrick Duffy.

He is thrilled with the work done at the Palace in Crescent Road so far - and there is still more to be done to make it ever better.

The project began two years ago, inside and out, to modernise the building, smarten it up and provide disabled access.

Up to 550 people can now play bingo at the sessions, using the latest technology gaming equipment.

Now they are preparing to start on the next phase - a complete overhaul of the venue's cinema, including putting in a lift to provide access for people with disabilities.

Managing director of Palatial Leisure, Patrick Duffy said it was a big investment for Felixstowe which was very positive for the town, its residents and visitors.

As well as a new entrance and foyer, complete repair and redecoration to the exterior, the club had been completely redecorated and recarpeted, with new seating and tables, open plan bar and catering.

“It's now a very nice, comfortable club for the people of Felixstowe that cannot be surpassed by any other in the country,” said Mr Duffy.

“It's excellent for people who live in the town, as well as those visiting on holiday and for short breaks.

“It's a safe, secure place for a night out where you can have something to eat, a drink and enjoy a flutter.”

Manager Vivienne Warren said players from as far afield as Colchester and Ipswich regularly played at the club.

“They travel here because they say the atmosphere and the welcome they get here is better than they find anywhere else,” she said.

Mr Duffy still has long-term plans for further development at the Palace and permission to build a hotel on the car park on the corner of Cobbold Road and Crescent Road.

What do you think of the improvements to the bingo hall? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail EveningStarLetters@eveningstar.co.uk