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Frinton: Rage at BBC documentary
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| A picture of Frinton from the Gazette's archives - a different picture painted in the BBC documentary. |
A BBC 2 documentary about a handful of Frinton residents has prompted an angry response.
The Curious World of Frinton-on-sea was shown as part of the Wonderland series, which depicts places and people across England.
Filmmaker Marc Issacs depicted a ghost-like town full of empty benches and follows residents as they campaign to keep their level-crossing gates from being modernized and replaced with automatic barriers.
Residents living in the town, however, claim the documentary was cruel, biased and insulting.
Gillian Sanford, of Winchester Road, Frinton, said: "I've been bombarded with phone calls from people who just can't believe it.
"I had every confidence when I was interviewed by the BBC that they would do a fair job but I feel so disappointed and let down by them.
"We gave then a lot of time and we gave them the opportunity to come to our meetings, they were there when we had the children in but they didn't show any of that. It was very biased and the people they showed were not typical of Frintonians at all."
Brian McLellan, chairman of the Frinton Residents Association, said the program was cruel and completely ignored the young community.
He said: "Anyone in the media tends to knock Frinton, it doesn't matter what happens, if it appears in the press, it gets giggled at and knocked.
"People just don't seem to realise that it's a perfectly ordinary town by the sea."
He added: "People who know Frinton will know it's a load of rubbish."
Mary Norman, youth and community worker at the No 4 youth centre, in Frinton, said the program failed to give a voice to the young people in the town.
She said: "I thought it was very biased, it only showed very elderly people with very fixed views and I didn't see a single young person in the whole program."
What do you think? Add your comments below, send an email to cf.gazette@nqe.com or write to us at 28 Jackson Road, Clacton.
1:38pm Friday 14th March 2008
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CommentPosted by: Daphne M Thurley, Clacton on 5:12pm Fri 14 Mar 08
This wasn't about Frinton, it was about 5/6 dysfunctional people who happen to live there, the woman looking for her sister was sad as the sister died 10 years ago. I cannot understand why they allowed it to go out, the filming was atrocious, very amateurish.[bold]bold[/bold]
This wasn't about Frinton, it was about 5/6 dysfunctional people who happen to live there, the woman looking for her sister was sad as the sister died 10 years ago. I cannot understand why they allowed it to go out, the filming was atrocious, very amateurish.
Posted by: Helen Price, Manchester on 1:23am Sat 15 Mar 08
I thought the programme was a disgrace on a number of levels and have complained directly to the BBC. I recommend others do the same.
I thought the programme was a disgrace on a number of levels and have complained directly to the BBC. I recommend others do the same.
Posted by: captain invinceable, residential clacton on 7:53pm Sat 15 Mar 08
**"I thought the programme was a disgrace on a number of levels and have complained directly to the BBC. I recommend others do the same."**
Like the above post, i will complain.
The programme never showed its new half million pounds toilet block.
Now that is cause for complaint..
**"I thought the programme was a disgrace on a number of levels and have complained directly to the BBC. I recommend others do the same."**
Like the above post, i will complain.
The programme never showed its new half million pounds toilet block.
Now that is cause for complaint..
Posted by: Steven Marsh, Colchester on 1:16am Sun 16 Mar 08
There is a breed of young programme makers who seem never to have experienced respect, care, empathy and kindness. I assume their childhood experiences were contaminated with the corrosive influence of humiliation and cruelty. If they had received warm, safe parental care, they surely would automatically afford those qualities to the public they encounter in the course of their programme making. The BBC seems to have lost its way, and have allowed a nasty element to infiltrate their ranks. Spite and hatred seems to be the hallmark of the modern day BBC. If these people set out to hurt the public in front of their cameras - they are no better than 'Happy Slappers'.
There is a breed of young programme makers who seem never to have experienced respect, care, empathy and kindness. I assume their childhood experiences were contaminated with the corrosive influence of humiliation and cruelty. If they had received warm, safe parental care, they surely would automatically afford those qualities to the public they encounter in the course of their programme making. The BBC seems to have lost its way, and have allowed a nasty element to infiltrate their ranks. Spite and hatred seems to be the hallmark of the modern day BBC. If these people set out to hurt the public in front of their cameras - they are no better than 'Happy Slappers'.
Posted by: Dave Hurley, Devon on 2:27pm Sun 16 Mar 08
I have just watched the programme on BBCi viewer and my thoughts echo the views expressed previously. The programme was completely biased. There were no young people shown. The whole emphasis seemed to be based on somewhere that resembled a ghost town and once there escape was impossible. There seemed to be a slant that showed people that cared for their town as people to be laughed at. Protests are normally supported by older people as younger ones either don't understand what the protest is about or just don't care. It still isn't right though to ridicule those that participate in the process. The lighting, locations, questions and mood setting was all done to show Frinton in the light the film makers wanted, not I suspect the true light. Nobody, least of all me, is suggesting Frinton is or may be [italic]THE[/italic] place to live but I'm sure it is no worse than dozens of other towns across the Country.
As a serious film I think it failed miserably. An unbiased account of Frinton would have been more palatable.
I have just watched the programme on BBCi viewer and my thoughts echo the views expressed previously. The programme was completely biased. There were no young people shown. The whole emphasis seemed to be based on somewhere that resembled a ghost town and once there escape was impossible. There seemed to be a slant that showed people that cared for their town as people to be laughed at. Protests are normally supported by older people as younger ones either don't understand what the protest is about or just don't care. It still isn't right though to ridicule those that participate in the process. The lighting, locations, questions and mood setting was all done to show Frinton in the light the film makers wanted, not I suspect the true light. Nobody, least of all me, is suggesting Frinton is or may be
THE place to live but I'm sure it is no worse than dozens of other towns across the Country.
As a serious film I think it failed miserably. An unbiased account of Frinton would have been more palatable.
Posted by: Fed Up, N E Essex on 5:44pm Sun 16 Mar 08
It is my belief that programme makers have a ‘view’ and they make a programme to support that view. The Frinton programme support that view.
It is my belief that programme makers have a ‘view’ and they make a programme to support that view. The Frinton programme support that view.
Posted by: Colin Harsent, Basildon, Essex on 5:58pm Sun 16 Mar 08
I enjoyed the program a great deal. The truth shown in its bare reality is seldom accepted. I tend to generally disagree with the above comments. Frinton in my opinion is as it was portrayed. There is a general air of snobbery within the retired set who want a Victorian Frinton. There is also a strong urge to resist change. Young people need to be involved in any changes that will benefit their future as well as the mature residents. Sea side towns are ghost towns if they do not embrace change.
I enjoyed the program a great deal. The truth shown in its bare reality is seldom accepted. I tend to generally disagree with the above comments. Frinton in my opinion is as it was portrayed. There is a general air of snobbery within the retired set who want a Victorian Frinton. There is also a strong urge to resist change. Young people need to be involved in any changes that will benefit their future as well as the mature residents. Sea side towns are ghost towns if they do not embrace change.
Posted by: Rob James, Tyneside on 6:30pm Sun 16 Mar 08
The programme was a sideways look at work of a few people, mainly the stubborn campaign to keep the ageing crossing gates as opposed to accepting automatic barriers as a step towards modernisation. I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope to see more of the same.
If Daphne M Thurley's comments are true about the old lady with Alzheimers looking for her sister, maybe whoever knows this as fact should take steps to look after the old lady, or to get her help.
The programme was a sideways look at work of a few people, mainly the stubborn campaign to keep the ageing crossing gates as opposed to accepting automatic barriers as a step towards modernisation. I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope to see more of the same.
If Daphne M Thurley's comments are true about the old lady with Alzheimers looking for her sister, maybe whoever knows this as fact should take steps to look after the old lady, or to get her help.
Posted by: Real Resident, Tendring District on 7:50pm Sun 16 Mar 08
I have it on good authority that the old lady on the corner has died since the programme was made (as has the lady in the hairdressers).
As for the programme, I am intrigued as to how Mark Issacs gets people to open up in this way. His film on Barking did so as well, which allowed some of the racist residents to show themselves up for what they are without the need for interviewer etc. There seems to be an idea in Frinton that the film was going to be a travelogue, showing how wonderful the place was and everyone should visit - this was clearly not the intention. There is also talk that Mike Reid at the Big L radio station had encouraged the documentary team to publicise the 'dispute' over the gates. Issacs found a few eccentric characters who would make good television, and succeeded! It was certainly good to look at, but it was in some ways unkind.
I have it on good authority that the old lady on the corner has died since the programme was made (as has the lady in the hairdressers).
As for the programme, I am intrigued as to how Mark Issacs gets people to open up in this way. His film on Barking did so as well, which allowed some of the racist residents to show themselves up for what they are without the need for interviewer etc. There seems to be an idea in Frinton that the film was going to be a travelogue, showing how wonderful the place was and everyone should visit - this was clearly not the intention. There is also talk that Mike Reid at the Big L radio station had encouraged the documentary team to publicise the 'dispute' over the gates. Issacs found a few eccentric characters who would make good television, and succeeded! It was certainly good to look at, but it was in some ways unkind.
Posted by: james bruce, clacton on sea on 10:41pm Sun 16 Mar 08
i think they should lock the gates and throw away thekeys!!!!!!![bold]bold[/bold]
i think they should lock the gates and throw away thekeys!!!!!!!
Posted by: captain invinceable, residential clacton on 5:22am Mon 17 Mar 08
i think they should lock the gates and throw away thekeys!!!!!!!
James, would that keep Frintonians in,
or keep Clactonians out...
i think they should lock the gates and throw away thekeys!!!!!!!
James, would that keep Frintonians in,
or keep Clactonians out...
Posted by: margarets sandwich, the boat on 11:33am Mon 17 Mar 08
i love frinton- especially margaret. she is the best!!
i love frinton- especially margaret. she is the best!!
Posted by: Rob James, Tyneside on 4:36pm Mon 17 Mar 08
The filming of Margaret eating her sandwich, complete with crunching sounds was exactly the same as On The Buses, where Olive's crunching on pickled onions was emphasised for the camera.
The filming of Margaret eating her sandwich, complete with crunching sounds was exactly the same as On The Buses, where Olive's crunching on pickled onions was emphasised for the camera.
Posted by: Julie Thornton, London on 1:55pm Tue 18 Mar 08
[quote][bold]Colin Harsent[/bold] wrote:
I enjoyed the program a great deal. The truth shown in its bare reality is seldom accepted. I tend to generally disagree with the above comments. Frinton in my opinion is as it was portrayed. There is a general air of snobbery within the retired set who want a Victorian Frinton. There is also a strong urge to resist change. Young people need to be involved in any changes that will benefit their future as well as the mature residents. Sea side towns are ghost towns if they do not embrace change.[/quote] You have missed the point. It is not whether or not YOU think Frinton has 'an air of snobbery'.Frinton is full of young people and families sharing time together on the beach, golf/cricket and tennis clubs but they were cleverly airbrushed out so that Mr Isaacs could make portray himself as a 'right-on/brilliant urban intellectual'with his attempts to satirise the town and its inhabitants. The people that he bullied were vulnerable and elderly and clearly not in full charge of their faculites - that is the point• The film hardly touched on the 'Frinton Railway Gates story' and had only one agenda - It was cruel, incompassionate television, made by a cynic who took vulnerable elderly people into his confidence under false pretences - imagine how they felt the day after the programme had aired?. Mr Isaacs didn't have the courage of his convictions and declined the Look East interview - cowardy custard, says it all really.
Colin Harsent wrote:
I enjoyed the program a great deal. The truth shown in its bare reality is seldom accepted. I tend to generally disagree with the above comments. Frinton in my opinion is as it was portrayed. There is a general air of snobbery within the retired set who want a Victorian Frinton. There is also a strong urge to resist change. Young people need to be involved in any changes that will benefit their future as well as the mature residents. Sea side towns are ghost towns if they do not embrace change.
You have missed the point. It is not whether or not YOU think Frinton has 'an air of snobbery'.Frinton is full of young people and families sharing time together on the beach, golf/cricket and tennis clubs but they were cleverly airbrushed out so that Mr Isaacs could make portray himself as a 'right-on/brilliant urban intellectual'with his attempts to satirise the town and its inhabitants. The people that he bullied were vulnerable and elderly and clearly not in full charge of their faculites - that is the point• The film hardly touched on the 'Frinton Railway Gates story' and had only one agenda - It was cruel, incompassionate television, made by a cynic who took vulnerable elderly people into his confidence under false pretences - imagine how they felt the day after the programme had aired?. Mr Isaacs didn't have the courage of his convictions and declined the Look East interview - cowardy custard, says it all really.
Posted by: angie, norwich on 6:16pm Tue 18 Mar 08
I think people should go visit the place and see for them selfs what the place is like and allso the people in it before adding there comments.. My family and i shall be going this easter holiday! and to find ouit for my self what the place is really like, before judging anyone. BTW what ever happend to the damm gates? did they get changed??
I think people should go visit the place and see for them selfs what the place is like and allso the people in it before adding there comments.. My family and i shall be going this easter holiday! and to find ouit for my self what the place is really like, before judging anyone. BTW what ever happend to the damm gates? did they get changed??
Posted by: C Mumford, Esex on 9:37pm Fri 21 Mar 08
I have just sat and watched this torrid documentary. I was cringing at how Frinton and its people have been portrayed by the BBC.
It reminded me of the League of Gentlemen comedy series. The phrase "Are you Local?" sprang to mind!
I hope the residents of Frinton never allow the BBC to return to film anything there in the future.
Good luck with the campaign for the level crossing gates to be kept. They are part of your heritage and I have always thought how perfect they look as I pass them.
Somethings should be kept for prosterity, such as Red double-deckers, Telephone boxes, and in this case, your level crossing (which, by the way, are a lot safer than barriers!
Why don't you go to the 10 Downing St Web site and raise a petition to keep your gates that will be addressed by the Prime Minister?
God luck to you all.
I have just sat and watched this torrid documentary. I was cringing at how Frinton and its people have been portrayed by the BBC.
It reminded me of the League of Gentlemen comedy series. The phrase "Are you Local?" sprang to mind!
I hope the residents of Frinton never allow the BBC to return to film anything there in the future.
Good luck with the campaign for the level crossing gates to be kept. They are part of your heritage and I have always thought how perfect they look as I pass them.
Somethings should be kept for prosterity, such as Red double-deckers, Telephone boxes, and in this case, your level crossing (which, by the way, are a lot safer than barriers!
Why don't you go to the 10 Downing St Web site and raise a petition to keep your gates that will be addressed by the Prime Minister?
God luck to you all.
Posted by: Nic, Frinton on 1:53pm Sat 22 Mar 08
My mum knows the "confused" old lady standing on the corner - she was told by the film makers severals times that they hadn't filmed it quite right, so could they interview her again. That is why she tells the camera three times that there is a doctors surgery across the road. She was duped by the film makers to look silly. The BBC should be ashamed for allowing this kind of film-making to go on.
Aparently Margaret "Dickens Curios lady" watched the show and loved it!!!
My mum knows the "confused" old lady standing on the corner - she was told by the film makers severals times that they hadn't filmed it quite right, so could they interview her again. That is why she tells the camera three times that there is a doctors surgery across the road. She was duped by the film makers to look silly. The BBC should be ashamed for allowing this kind of film-making to go on.
Aparently Margaret "Dickens Curios lady" watched the show and loved it!!!
Posted by: walton-on-the-Naze resident, walton-on-theNaze on 2:07pm Mon 24 Mar 08
I really enjoyed the documentary though I think for the wrong reasons, appeared to be made like the comedy docu-style that Victoria Wood is known for, Margaret was perfect for the part of Victoria Wood. Very funny, but not very fair as was meant to be a serious view of Frinton life and I am afraid it didn't come across that way. I have the same sentiment about the lady on the corner who supposedley has dementia, why is nobody taking care of her then?!! She is very vulnerable walking around on her own as she forgets what she is doing or where she is going, bless her. She has served the community in her life, so why havn't the Frinton community served her in her time of need? Easier to turn a blind eye.........? If she has passed away I hope she wasn't alone then too! Bless her and all the Frinton residents.
I really enjoyed the documentary though I think for the wrong reasons, appeared to be made like the comedy docu-style that Victoria Wood is known for, Margaret was perfect for the part of Victoria Wood. Very funny, but not very fair as was meant to be a serious view of Frinton life and I am afraid it didn't come across that way. I have the same sentiment about the lady on the corner who supposedley has dementia, why is nobody taking care of her then?!! She is very vulnerable walking around on her own as she forgets what she is doing or where she is going, bless her. She has served the community in her life, so why havn't the Frinton community served her in her time of need? Easier to turn a blind eye.........? If she has passed away I hope she wasn't alone then too! Bless her and all the Frinton residents.
Posted by: Sam G, London on 12:32am Wed 2 Apr 08
I enjoyed watching the doc.. probably because it was biased in its emphasis on the curiosity vibe - sound, edit, plotwise.. i'm sure theres a very non-curious world of thornton on sea but thats another documentary.. one that I probably wont watch.
I enjoyed watching the doc.. probably because it was biased in its emphasis on the curiosity vibe - sound, edit, plotwise.. i'm sure theres a very non-curious world of thornton on sea but thats another documentary.. one that I probably wont watch.
Posted by: Lawrie Driver, Walton on the Naze on 7:45am Wed 9 Apr 08
This documentary was a very sad portrayal of life I am afraid. Big companies and organisations, corrupt powers ride roughshod over the little people and do not care about their views.
Frinton, make a stand!
It is about time that those who think thatthey run the country do not. Most of Frinton's residents have been involved in World Wars, some probably fought to keep this country free and ensure everybody had rights. THose who govern this country have tried to undermine and destroy that. Today's generation do not care and need to be taught a harsh lesson.
Why should we allow people from other countries to settle here, intigrate and spoil our society? Why are we being forced to do what they want us to do? Leave us alone. We do not want your interference!
This documentary was a very sad portrayal of life I am afraid. Big companies and organisations, corrupt powers ride roughshod over the little people and do not care about their views.
Frinton, make a stand!
It is about time that those who think thatthey run the country do not. Most of Frinton's residents have been involved in World Wars, some probably fought to keep this country free and ensure everybody had rights. THose who govern this country have tried to undermine and destroy that. Today's generation do not care and need to be taught a harsh lesson.
Why should we allow people from other countries to settle here, intigrate and spoil our society? Why are we being forced to do what they want us to do? Leave us alone. We do not want your interference!
Posted by: James Smith, Clacton on 7:53am Wed 9 Apr 08
Hated this documentary but it does go to show that younger generations have little or no respect.
I think there should be a Freedom for Frinton campaign so that the local people can run it how they wish. Just like in Passport to Pimlico.
Frinton Council should threaten to sue Network Rail if Network rail put up barriers at the level crossing to replace the gates. Deny them planning permission on the grounds that it would spoil the environment.
If the council allow the gates to be replaced, kick them out at the local elections and get powers to be in place that will restore the gates.
This is democracy and Network rail and governing powers should realise that.
Good luck to you all.
As a way of protest... what would happen if every resident of Frinton withheld paying their licence Fee (if you are not getting it for fee of course?) in order to get the BBC to apologise nationally for this debacle?
Hated this documentary but it does go to show that younger generations have little or no respect.
I think there should be a Freedom for Frinton campaign so that the local people can run it how they wish. Just like in Passport to Pimlico.
Frinton Council should threaten to sue Network Rail if Network rail put up barriers at the level crossing to replace the gates. Deny them planning permission on the grounds that it would spoil the environment.
If the council allow the gates to be replaced, kick them out at the local elections and get powers to be in place that will restore the gates.
This is democracy and Network rail and governing powers should realise that.
Good luck to you all.
As a way of protest... what would happen if every resident of Frinton withheld paying their licence Fee (if you are not getting it for fee of course?) in order to get the BBC to apologise nationally for this debacle?
Posted by: Harry Hill, London on 7:58am Wed 9 Apr 08
Loved the documentary. I think there should be a comedy series based on it.
The Characters, Margaret from the Old Curiosity Shop and the Lady on the corner were excellent. But which one is better?
There's only one way to find out......
[bold]
FIGHT!!![/bold]
Loved the documentary. I think there should be a comedy series based on it.
The Characters, Margaret from the Old Curiosity Shop and the Lady on the corner were excellent. But which one is better?
There's only one way to find out......
FIGHT!!! Posted by: Veronica Redhead on 8:13am Wed 9 Apr 08
I would love to live in Frinton when I am older as the residents are really nice people. If somebody jumped over my fence I'd be thrilled. Margaret, You are a very lucky lady!
I hope they keep the gates. They are heritage and nostalgic. They'll want to pull down the Fire tower next! KEEP FRINTON FREE !!
I would love to live in Frinton when I am older as the residents are really nice people. If somebody jumped over my fence I'd be thrilled. Margaret, You are a very lucky lady!
I hope they keep the gates. They are heritage and nostalgic. They'll want to pull down the Fire tower next! KEEP FRINTON FREE !!
Posted by: Harry Hill, London on 8:17am Wed 9 Apr 08
PS...
Margaret, Have you ever sold anything? Anything at all? Ever?
PS...
Margaret, Have you ever sold anything? Anything at all? Ever?
Posted by: Rob James, Tyneside on 10:14pm Fri 11 Apr 08
[quote][bold]Lawrie Driver[/bold] wrote:
This documentary was a very sad portrayal of life I am afraid. Big companies and organisations, corrupt powers ride roughshod over the little people and do not care about their views. Frinton, make a stand! It is about time that those who think thatthey run the country do not. Most of Frinton\'s residents have been involved in World Wars, some probably fought to keep this country free and ensure everybody had rights. THose who govern this country have tried to undermine and destroy that. Today\'s generation do not care and need to be taught a harsh lesson. Why should we allow people from other countries to settle here, intigrate and spoil our society? Why are we being forced to do what they want us to do? Leave us alone. We do not want your interference![/quote] To answer your racist question Lawrie, we allow people from other countries to settle here because we are an open, caring country and we are able to help people escape persecution. What about the tens of thousands of Brits that leave the shores of this island to set up home in Spain or Portugal?
With reference to your comments about [bold]today's generation not caring and needing a harsh lesson[/bold] , you really are on another planet.
Anyway, I'm not even sure where your bigoted opinions have any relevance to the debate about the TV show.
Lawrie Driver wrote:
This documentary was a very sad portrayal of life I am afraid. Big companies and organisations, corrupt powers ride roughshod over the little people and do not care about their views. Frinton, make a stand! It is about time that those who think thatthey run the country do not. Most of Frinton\'s residents have been involved in World Wars, some probably fought to keep this country free and ensure everybody had rights. THose who govern this country have tried to undermine and destroy that. Today\'s generation do not care and need to be taught a harsh lesson. Why should we allow people from other countries to settle here, intigrate and spoil our society? Why are we being forced to do what they want us to do? Leave us alone. We do not want your interference!
To answer your racist question Lawrie, we allow people from other countries to settle here because we are an open, caring country and we are able to help people escape persecution. What about the tens of thousands of Brits that leave the shores of this island to set up home in Spain or Portugal?
With reference to your comments about
today's generation not caring and needing a harsh lesson , you really are on another planet.
Anyway, I'm not even sure where your bigoted opinions have any relevance to the debate about the TV show.
Posted by: Richard, Kent on 2:37pm Wed 16 Apr 08
Congratulations to the BBC. Far too often programmes are made so that we remain politically correct and do not upset anyone. The harsh truth is that most of the residents who were portrayed in this film will not be with us for many more years, and to try and keep a town in the dark ages does more harm than good. Pensioners must realise that we now have things called electricity and motor cars and people like to use the latter to visit nice seaside places. They should take a leaf out of Bournemouths book which always had a reputation of being far too old and look what they have done to turn the town around. Let the youngsters have a say and turn the town around.
Congratulations to the BBC. Far too often programmes are made so that we remain politically correct and do not upset anyone. The harsh truth is that most of the residents who were portrayed in this film will not be with us for many more years, and to try and keep a town in the dark ages does more harm than good. Pensioners must realise that we now have things called electricity and motor cars and people like to use the latter to visit nice seaside places. They should take a leaf out of Bournemouths book which always had a reputation of being far too old and look what they have done to turn the town around. Let the youngsters have a say and turn the town around.
Posted by: Melvin, Frinton on Sea on 8:30pm Sat 19 Apr 08
Richard, Kent, wrote:
[italic]"The harsh truth is that most of the residents who were portrayed in this film will not be with us for many more years, and to try and keep a town in the dark ages does more harm than good. Pensioners must realise that we now have things called electricity and motor cars and people like to use the latter to visit nice seaside places."[/italic]
Those with fewer years left deserve to have their opinions respected all the more for this!
Many towns have lost their former character, and many residents and visitors would regard that as being "[italic]more harm than good[/italic] "
Many younger and middle aged people (not shown in the programme) also seem to like Frinton the way it is (albeit "different" from elsewhere!)
Why should that all change for the sake of those tourists who may be happier visiting the many other stereotyped seaside towns instead?
Frinton did have electricity and cars in it's heydays (which were not the dark ages).
It seems no bad thing that many locals try to preserve what little they can of that. A point which many visitors also appreciate.
Richard, Kent, wrote:
"The harsh truth is that most of the residents who were portrayed in this film will not be with us for many more years, and to try and keep a town in the dark ages does more harm than good. Pensioners must realise that we now have things called electricity and motor cars and people like to use the latter to visit nice seaside places."
Those with fewer years left deserve to have their opinions respected all the more for this!
Many towns have lost their former character, and many residents and visitors would regard that as being "
more harm than good "
Many younger and middle aged people (not shown in the programme) also seem to like Frinton the way it is (albeit "different" from elsewhere!)
Why should that all change for the sake of those tourists who may be happier visiting the many other stereotyped seaside towns instead?
Frinton did have electricity and cars in it's heydays (which were not the dark ages).
It seems no bad thing that many locals try to preserve what little they can of that. A point which many visitors also appreciate.
Posted by: James Smith, Dagenham on 8:17pm Sun 20 Apr 08
RE Rob James, Tyneside.
You my friend is what is wrong with this country I'm afraid. You probably voted Labout too at the last election. What Mr Driver says is Fact, not racist. It is about time ignorant people like you open your eyes. Our foefathers did not fight a war to keep this country free in vain or do you have no sense of history and a short memory?
This is England, Not Africa, Pakistan, India etc. This is not a free for all to all those who have never paid a penny into the system and never will. It is about time the people of this country stood up to their rights and if ignorant twits like you don't like it, then you clear off. The country would be a better place without the likes of you!
RE Rob James, Tyneside.
You my friend is what is wrong with this country I'm afraid. You probably voted Labout too at the last election. What Mr Driver says is Fact, not racist. It is about time ignorant people like you open your eyes. Our foefathers did not fight a war to keep this country free in vain or do you have no sense of history and a short memory?
This is England, Not Africa, Pakistan, India etc. This is not a free for all to all those who have never paid a penny into the system and never will. It is about time the people of this country stood up to their rights and if ignorant twits like you don't like it, then you clear off. The country would be a better place without the likes of you!
Posted by: Anne Jobs, Leicestershire on 8:25pm Sun 20 Apr 08
I agree fully with messers Driver and Smith.
Frinton is a lovely place and has lovely people. It represents a Past of England that is still preserved in all it's glory today. If Mr James from Tynside feels the comments made are racist then he should look up the word in a dictionary if he can read! (I doubt it though where he comes from .. Tyneside, the sewar of England where the men are men... and so are the women!!.
Frinton and it's residents should be left alone. I often visit my aunt there and it really is a beautiful town, unspoilt by today's society. Anybody who wants to change this should be locked up and the key thrown away.... Mr James included!
I agree fully with messers Driver and Smith.
Frinton is a lovely place and has lovely people. It represents a Past of England that is still preserved in all it's glory today. If Mr James from Tynside feels the comments made are racist then he should look up the word in a dictionary if he can read! (I doubt it though where he comes from .. Tyneside, the sewar of England where the men are men... and so are the women!!.
Frinton and it's residents should be left alone. I often visit my aunt there and it really is a beautiful town, unspoilt by today's society. Anybody who wants to change this should be locked up and the key thrown away.... Mr James included!
Posted by: Virginity Fingers, Frinton On Sea on 8:30pm Sun 20 Apr 08
We all appreciate the kind comments from those above. My parents and their parents all came from this area. It has not really changed in 100 years and we like it that way. Why should outsiders try to interfere? Leave us alone.
As for that nasty man from Tyneside with his ridiculous comments (above), you would not be welcome here. We have seen what your society have done to Tyneside and it is not nice. Not nice at all!
We want to keep our lovely gates and if you don't like it, tough!
We all appreciate the kind comments from those above. My parents and their parents all came from this area. It has not really changed in 100 years and we like it that way. Why should outsiders try to interfere? Leave us alone.
As for that nasty man from Tyneside with his ridiculous comments (above), you would not be welcome here. We have seen what your society have done to Tyneside and it is not nice. Not nice at all!
We want to keep our lovely gates and if you don't like it, tough!
Posted by: James Davies, Little Clacton on 8:38pm Sun 20 Apr 08
I have lived in the area all my life. Since certain countries have joined Europe allowing unchecked immigration we have noticed that more immagrants are being put up in Bed and Breakfast's and more in this area than in other parts of the country. These people do not have jobs and often resort to crime to sustain a living. In the last few years, crime in this area has increased so much and it is mainly down to these immigrants (FACT).
Mr James should keep his Liberal views to himself and stick to his own part of the country!
I saw the programme too and the people of Frinton were portrayed disgustingly!
I have lived in the area all my life. Since certain countries have joined Europe allowing unchecked immigration we have noticed that more immagrants are being put up in Bed and Breakfast's and more in this area than in other parts of the country. These people do not have jobs and often resort to crime to sustain a living. In the last few years, crime in this area has increased so much and it is mainly down to these immigrants (FACT).
Mr James should keep his Liberal views to himself and stick to his own part of the country!
I saw the programme too and the people of Frinton were portrayed disgustingly!
Posted by: Rob James, Tyneside on 6:12pm Wed 30 Apr 08
I am pleased I live on Tyneside, so to be as far away as possible from bigoted, small-minded scum like the above posters who think we are demeaned to come from the North. I wonder when Anne Jobs last visited Tyneside? As for her comments about me being able to read, try reading a dictionary to spell [bold]sewer[/bold] , you fool! As a professional, educated guy, it appears obvious who the uneducated posters are!
I'm delighted to come from a town called South Shields where we have a large Arab population going back to the 1930s and a wide array of cultures, cuisines and shops of different races. The thought of a little puritan enclave such as Frinton makes me shudder.
I am pleased I live on Tyneside, so to be as far away as possible from bigoted, small-minded scum like the above posters who think we are demeaned to come from the North. I wonder when Anne Jobs last visited Tyneside? As for her comments about me being able to read, try reading a dictionary to spell
sewer , you fool! As a professional, educated guy, it appears obvious who the uneducated posters are!
I'm delighted to come from a town called South Shields where we have a large Arab population going back to the 1930s and a wide array of cultures, cuisines and shops of different races. The thought of a little puritan enclave such as Frinton makes me shudder.
Posted by: Anon, Kirby-Le-Soken on 9:04pm Wed 7 May 08
I for one am under 18, and I know of several teenagers who live there, and seperate tennagers who hang around a disused corner shop, doing what normal teenagers do. I have never seen graffiti, and there are lots of young mums walking the streets. Where was the tennis club? The succesful cricket club? Tendring Technology College, one of the fastest improving secondaries?
This was far from a representation of life. In 20 years, all the older people will have gone and a majority of 40 year olds will take over.
I think messer Mark Issacs should do a documentary on Romford - far more interesting and a true representation of how the UK is evolving.
I for one am under 18, and I know of several teenagers who live there, and seperate tennagers who hang around a disused corner shop, doing what normal teenagers do. I have never seen graffiti, and there are lots of young mums walking the streets. Where was the tennis club? The succesful cricket club? Tendring Technology College, one of the fastest improving secondaries?
This was far from a representation of life. In 20 years, all the older people will have gone and a majority of 40 year olds will take over.
I think messer Mark Issacs should do a documentary on Romford - far more interesting and a true representation of how the UK is evolving.
Posted by: Colin Harsent, Basildon, Essex on 12:45pm Mon 12 May 08
I still feel people are missing the point of the documentary.
Frinton does not want change...End of story!
This island is not big enough for a minority of elderly residents to have things their own way to suit their own needs without any consideration for anybody else.
Does Frinton want visitors?
I visited Frinton last week.There are lovely beaches that are not used or marketed for their potential. There are beach huts for the lucky few. There are no facilities at all for visitors. No boating / sailing facilities. Nothing at all for children. No refreshment facilities. All I could see were dogs being walked off their leads on the promenade. I counted less than 8 people on the beaches. The weather was 26 degrees, bright sunny with no winds.
Wheelchair users have no chance of going down and then up the very steep slope to the promenade.One woman I met was exasperated by having no other alternative but having to push her Mother's wheelchair down the slope. An alternative gate on level ground is now locked!!
I do like Frinton but feel sad at its deliberate demise and stagnation.
There would be nothing to fear from a marina, quality restuarants and cafes.
Regeneration is needed for housing and jobs. For the young and upcoming residents of the town.The hospitality industry is booming.
I feel the Frinton council memebers should visit other UK coastal towns for inspiration.
It would be nice if Frinton was known for its marina and top class restaurants and not just a documentary.
I still feel people are missing the point of the documentary.
Frinton does not want change...End of story!
This island is not big enough for a minority of elderly residents to have things their own way to suit their own needs without any consideration for anybody else.
Does Frinton want visitors?
I visited Frinton last week.There are lovely beaches that are not used or marketed for their potential. There are beach huts for the lucky few. There are no facilities at all for visitors. No boating / sailing facilities. Nothing at all for children. No refreshment facilities. All I could see were dogs being walked off their leads on the promenade. I counted less than 8 people on the beaches. The weather was 26 degrees, bright sunny with no winds.
Wheelchair users have no chance of going down and then up the very steep slope to the promenade.One woman I met was exasperated by having no other alternative but having to push her Mother's wheelchair down the slope. An alternative gate on level ground is now locked!!
I do like Frinton but feel sad at its deliberate demise and stagnation.
There would be nothing to fear from a marina, quality restuarants and cafes.
Regeneration is needed for housing and jobs. For the young and upcoming residents of the town.The hospitality industry is booming.
I feel the Frinton council memebers should visit other UK coastal towns for inspiration.
It would be nice if Frinton was known for its marina and top class restaurants and not just a documentary.
Posted by: Colin Harsent, Basildon, Essex on 12:45pm Mon 12 May 08
I still feel people are missing the point of the documentary.
Frinton does not want change...End of story!
This island is not big enough for a minority of elderly residents to have things their own way to suit their own needs without any consideration for anybody else.
Does Frinton want visitors?
I visited Frinton last week.There are lovely beaches that are not used or marketed for their potential. There are beach huts for the lucky few. There are no facilities at all for visitors. No boating / sailing facilities. Nothing at all for children. No refreshment facilities. All I could see were dogs being walked off their leads on the promenade. I counted less than 8 people on the beaches. The weather was 26 degrees, bright sunny with no winds.
Wheelchair users have no chance of going down and then up the very steep slope to the promenade.One woman I met was exasperated by having no other alternative but having to push her Mother's wheelchair down the slope. An alternative gate on level ground is now locked!!
I do like Frinton but feel sad at its deliberate demise and stagnation.
There would be nothing to fear from a marina, quality restuarants and cafes.
Regeneration is needed for housing and jobs. For the young and upcoming residents of the town.The hospitality industry is booming.
I feel the Frinton council memebers should visit other UK coastal towns for inspiration.
It would be nice if Frinton was known for its marina and top class restaurants and not just a documentary.
I still feel people are missing the point of the documentary.
Frinton does not want change...End of story!
This island is not big enough for a minority of elderly residents to have things their own way to suit their own needs without any consideration for anybody else.
Does Frinton want visitors?
I visited Frinton last week.There are lovely beaches that are not used or marketed for their potential. There are beach huts for the lucky few. There are no facilities at all for visitors. No boating / sailing facilities. Nothing at all for children. No refreshment facilities. All I could see were dogs being walked off their leads on the promenade. I counted less than 8 people on the beaches. The weather was 26 degrees, bright sunny with no winds.
Wheelchair users have no chance of going down and then up the very steep slope to the promenade.One woman I met was exasperated by having no other alternative but having to push her Mother's wheelchair down the slope. An alternative gate on level ground is now locked!!
I do like Frinton but feel sad at its deliberate demise and stagnation.
There would be nothing to fear from a marina, quality restuarants and cafes.
Regeneration is needed for housing and jobs. For the young and upcoming residents of the town.The hospitality industry is booming.
I feel the Frinton council memebers should visit other UK coastal towns for inspiration.
It would be nice if Frinton was known for its marina and top class restaurants and not just a documentary.
Posted by: Colin Harsent, Basildon, Essex on 12:48pm Mon 12 May 08
I still feel people are missing the point of the documentary.
Frinton does not want change...End of story!
This island is not big enough for a minority of elderly residents to have things their own way to suit their own needs without any consideration for anybody else.
Does Frinton want visitors?
I visited Frinton last week.There are lovely beaches that are not used or marketed for their potential. There are beach huts for the lucky few. There are no facilities at all for visitors. No boating / sailing facilities. Nothing at all for children. No refreshment facilities. All I could see were dogs being walked off their leads on the promenade. I counted less than 8 people on the beaches. The weather was 26 degrees, bright sunny with no winds.
Wheelchair users have no chance of going down and then up the very steep slope to the promenade.One woman I met was exasperated by having no other alternative but having to push her Mother's wheelchair down the slope. An alternative gate on level ground is now locked!!
I do like Frinton but feel sad at its deliberate demise and stagnation.
There would be nothing to fear from a marina, quality restuarants and cafes.
Regeneration is needed for housing and jobs. For the young and upcoming residents of the town.The hospitality industry is booming.
I feel the Frinton council memebers should visit other UK coastal towns for inspiration.
It would be nice if Frinton was known for its marina and top class restaurants and not just a documentary.
I still feel people are missing the point of the documentary.
Frinton does not want change...End of story!
This island is not big enough for a minority of elderly residents to have things their own way to suit their own needs without any consideration for anybody else.
Does Frinton want visitors?
I visited Frinton last week.There are lovely beaches that are not used or marketed for their potential. There are beach huts for the lucky few. There are no facilities at all for visitors. No boating / sailing facilities. Nothing at all for children. No refreshment facilities. All I could see were dogs being walked off their leads on the promenade. I counted less than 8 people on the beaches. The weather was 26 degrees, bright sunny with no winds.
Wheelchair users have no chance of going down and then up the very steep slope to the promenade.One woman I met was exasperated by having no other alternative but having to push her Mother's wheelchair down the slope. An alternative gate on level ground is now locked!!
I do like Frinton but feel sad at its deliberate demise and stagnation.
There would be nothing to fear from a marina, quality restuarants and cafes.
Regeneration is needed for housing and jobs. For the young and upcoming residents of the town.The hospitality industry is booming.
I feel the Frinton council memebers should visit other UK coastal towns for inspiration.
It would be nice if Frinton was known for its marina and top class restaurants and not just a documentary.
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