Category: Blog

Jaywick Sands’ Sunspot business centre is continuing to energise local entrepreneurs — providing the space and support for bold new ventures that benefit the whole community.

The latest startup at the Tendring District Council-run (TDC) centre to take flight is Flappy Joe’s, a health-focused fast-food diner offering affordable, healthy meals free from additives, seed oils, and processed ingredients.

Founded by Joanne Campbell, the business was inspired by her experience as a parent of children with food intolerances and aims to make clean, nourishing food accessible to all.

“Flappy Joe’s is about helping people feel better through food,” she said.

“We’re passionate about offering genuinely healthy meals that support gut health and reduce inflammation, without compromising on taste or affordability –

“We’re committed to using fresh, health-promoting ingredients, no additives, preservatives, or processed foods, while keeping everything flavourful.

“Healthy eating shouldn’t be a luxury – many people on lower incomes struggle to access wholesome food, so our menu is designed to be simple, affordable, and nourishing.”

The eatery, which is expected to open in January, will offer meal deals for children and adults and is working with local organisations to distribute free food vouchers to vulnerable families.

The Sunspot, which is celebrating its two-year anniversary, has become a thriving centre for retail, office space, and community events.

All but one of the 24 commercial units are now rented out, and footfall to the seafront has increased eightfold over the past year.

The development includes a covered market, café, event space, and a community garden, and has hosted regular boot sales and public events.

It is ideal for entrepreneurs taking their first steps, start-ups looking to grow or established businesses looking to expand and reach a new market in a fantastic location.

It is currently home to a range of businesses, including Bistro at the Sunspot café, Buddies Barbers, Rainy Bakes bakery and Spotty Dotty and Friends dog groomers.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC’S Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “The Sunspot is powering a new generation of entrepreneurs in Jaywick Sands. It’s giving people the tools to grow their businesses and make a real impact on the community.

“Flappy Joe’s is a brilliant example of how innovation and social value go hand in hand, and we’re proud to support ventures that improve lives and raise aspirations.”

The Sunspot has earned national recognition, including the Institute of Economic Development’s Social Value Champion of the Year 2024 and the Planning Award 2024 for Best Use of Brownfield Land in Placemaking.

To discover more about the Sunspot – or to register your interest in renting the one remaining business unit – go to www.sunspotjaywick.co.uk.

Clacton Airshow is flying high after being shortlisted for a prestigious national accolade – the National Outdoor Events Association (NOEA) Regional Event of the Year Award.

The nomination is a proud moment not just for the event, but for Clacton itself – showcasing the town as a vibrant, welcoming destination to an estimated 200,000 visitors in 2025.

The popular airshow, organised by Tendring District Council (TDC), has become a summer staple, delivering an estimated £12million annual boost to the local economy.

The NOEA Awards shine a spotlight on the very best in the business – and Clacton Airshow’s nomination places it among the elite.

The winners will be revealed at a glittering ceremony at the Roman Baths and Pump Rooms in Bath on 26 November.

Ivan Henderson, TDC Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said he was delighted that the airshow has been recognised by the UK’s leading outdoor events body as one of the best regional events in England.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be shortlisted – it’s a real feather in our cap and a proud moment for everyone involved in making Clacton Airshow such a standout event,” he said.

“Clacton Airshow is more than just a display – it’s a celebration of aviation, heritage and community, and a showcase of everything that makes Clacton so special.

“It’s a chance to shine a light on the town’s energy, creativity and spirit – and to share that with visitors from across the country.

“This recognition shows that what we’re building here in Clacton is being noticed nationally – and that the town continues to grow as a place of opportunity, pride and aspiration.”

This year’s Clacton Airshow featured everything from the roar of the Red to the sparkle of twilight fireworks, with historic warbirds, cutting-edge aerobatics, and a bustling ground show.

For the first time, the event was also livestreamed, bringing the action to thousands more across the UK.

Clacton Airshow will return in 2026 on Thursday 27 and Friday 28 August, promising another unforgettable celebration of aviation and seaside fun.

Chinook at Clacton Airshow Aug 2024 TDC

An awe-inspiring replica Chinook helicopter will be returning to Clacton Airshow this summer, thrilling visitors as part of an exciting programme of ground events.

The Chinook, which drew huge crowds last year, will once again be stationed at the airshow site at West Greensward, offering aviation fans and families the rare chance to step aboard and experience the scale and atmosphere of this iconic military aircraft.

Brought by the RAF ground crew, the replica was one of the most talked-about attractions in 2024 – and its return is sure to be a highlight of the airshow site for 2025.

Taking place on 21 and 22 August, the 32nd Clacton Airshow – organised by Tendring District Council (TDC) – promises two days of high-flying excitement and ground-level entertainment.

The skies will be alive with the roar of engines from the likes of the mighty RAF Red Arrows and the iconic Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, while the ground will be buzzing with interactive exhibits, food stalls, and family-friendly fun.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said the Chinook’s return is a major draw.

“The replica Chinook was a real showstopper last year – people loved getting up close to such a legendary aircraft,” he said.

“It’s fantastic to have it back as part of an even bigger and better ground programme.

“With the Red Arrows dazzling in the skies and so much to see and do on the ground, this year’s Clacton Airshow is shaping up to be truly unforgettable.”

The RAF will have a strong presence on the ground, with RAF Careers, Red Arrows and Tutor display team exhibits, and a recruitment exhibition.

The Army and Royal Navy outreach teams will also be on hand, offering insight into life in the forces and showcasing their latest tech and opportunities, while Combat2Coffee‘s portable roastery will be serving up hot drinks to fund its veterans’ outreach services.

Visitors can also browse a wide range of trade stalls, including new additions like J&Bs Barkery with artisan dog treats, Rough Stuff Oak featuring handmade goods crafted at HMP The Mount, and Bright Eyes of Cambridge, offering stunning macro iris photography.

Also joining the flight line-up this year is the agile RAF Grob Tutor T1 – a favourite for training future pilots – and even more thrilling aerial displays set to be revealed in the coming months.

BBC Essex will once again be returning to present Radio Airshow during the two days of this summer’s Clacton Airshow.

Radio Airshow plays across the event site, bringing specialist commentary on the flight displays and updates on the event, as well as broadcasting on the airwaves.

For updates and more information on the 2025 Clacton Airshow people should visit www.clactonairshow.com, follow @clactonairshow on X, or go to the official Facebook event.