TWO holiday parks are set to stay open for an extra fortnight in a bid to attract more holidaymakers.

Park Holidays UK, which owns Seawick and St Osyth holiday parks, said the extension will also create more jobs – many with training opportunities.

The St Osyth-based parks have more than 1,100 holiday homes.

They have previously been closed throughout the whole of February, but from now on they will be open for the last two weeks of the month.

The extension plans have been approved by Tendring Council.

Park Holidays UK director Tony Clish said: “Increasing the period when holiday homes can be used is a reflection of the way people now use their leisure, and enjoy shorter breaks throughout the year.

“Plenty of indoor entertainment means the weather is never a barrier to taking time out, and modern holiday homes provide all the comforts for four-season use.”

With Seawick Holiday Park’s investment in a new entertainment and swimming pool complex almost complete, the company aims to recruit extra staff.

There are around 100 jobs to fill on both parks and, although most are initially seasonal, there will be opportunities for some team members to take on full-time roles.

Jobs exist in a range of areas, including bars and catering, maintenance, admin and in the parks’ leisure facilities.

Almost all come with the chance of training.

Mr Clish added: “Tourism and leisure are an important component of the regional economy of this area, and there are today many fantastic chances for career progression in the industry.

“We have a development programme which encourages people to make the most of their potential and we are always keen to offer promotion to those keen to progress.”

Council spokesman Nigel Brown said: “There will still be a close-down period of two weeks each year and the parks will continue to operate as holiday accommodation only, and not as anyone’s sole or main residence.

“That has been covered among the conditions imposed as part of the consents given.”