AN injunction has been granted by the High Court to ban caravans and overnight camping on the seafront during Clacton Airshow next month.

Tendring Council has sought an injunction each year since 2012 after travellers pitched up next to the West Greensward site ahead of the show.

Three years ago organisers were left shocked after a High Court judge rejected its bid to ban caravans from Marine Parade West during the event.

But this year Tendring Council, which runs the event, and Essex County Council successfully applied for an injunction banning overnight camping on selected car parks, seafront roads and open spaces during the airshow period.

The order, which was granted at the High Court of Justice in London, runs from August 16 through to August 31.

It applies to any campervan, mobile home, caravan or tent.

Anyone who fails to obey the order can be held in contempt of court and could be sent to prison, fined or have their assets seized.

Alex Porter, Tendring Council’s councillor responsible for leisure and tourism, said the injunction was important to protect the Clacton Airshow.

He said: “Previously we have had large unauthorised encampments in the district, so we must do all we can to prevent any disruption to what is a brilliant event.

“In the past we have had issues, and the injunction has previously proved effective in both deterring and dealing with problems.”

Mr Porter added everyone wis welcome to enjoy the free airshow, which attracts about 250,000 people over the two days. Spectators can make use of the park and ride service operated by Hedingham Omnibuses from both Clacton Factory Outlet and Holland Haven or take one of the extra train services to Clacton being run by Greater Anglia.

Alternatively spaces can be booked at the public car park in West Road, Clacton, run by the Rotary Club and which is served by a shuttle bus to the seafront.

Paul Honeywood, councillor responsible for housing, said: “The council will do everything in its power to move unauthorised encampments on as quickly as possible and this injunction is a great help.”

This year’s Clacton Airshow will takes place on Thursday, August 22 and Friday, August 23.

Flights already revealed include the Blades aerobatic display team and the return of a twilight flying display.