CLACTON MP Giles Watling has hit back at a failed US congressional candidate who used a picture of Jaywick to warn Americans of how their country could look.

The campaign advert urged voters to back President Donald Trump or risk the picture “becoming a reality.”

The image, which depicts a run-down street, was used in a campaign advert for Republican Dr Nick Stella ahead of the US mid-term elections.

The picture is out of date, with Essex County Council completing a £6.5 million programme of road improvements since it was taken.

Dr Stella lost out to Democrat Bill Foster in the 11th Illinois congressional district.

Now Mr Watling is urging Dr Stella to pay a visit to Jaywick to witness the changes first hand.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

  • Invitation - Clacton MP Giles Watling has invited Dr Nick Stella​ to Jaywick

Mr Watling said: “I am sure when the image was chosen from the internet it did not occur to Dr Stella the use of that image would have been raised and discussed with the media across the Atlantic.

“I am also sure the use of the image was not used with a desire to offend or cause upset, but unfortunately within the community it has.”

Mr Watling said: “This area of Essex was designed to be a seaside resort, offering affordable holiday homes and people from across the country flocked to Jaywick for their summer holidays.

“Unfortunately, over time it then became permanent housing for many and the area did suffer as a result.

“However, over recent years, with funding and support from the local authority, and our government, there has been a significant transformation in the area.

“New roads, buildings and social housing under construction.

“Yes, Jaywick does have areas of deprivation, but there are also stories of survival, of community cohesion of individuals and groups working together to improve their lives and the lives of others.”

“Not only that, but as I have already touched on, Jaywick boasts the most incredible coastline, some of the best beaches there are in the British Isles.”

Dr Stella’s campaign director had not responded at the time of going to press.