LITTLEHAMPTON TOURIST BOOST

A BOOMING start to the summer tourist season is underway, thanks to the success of the town's East Bank scheme.

Not only is the new 32-bed youth hostel fully booked for the Easter weekend, but a booking has already been made for new visitor moorings near Town Quay.

But it's not just the new facilities drawing the crowds as established accommodation has also been snapped up for the Easter break, which will hopefully herald an economic boom for Littlehampton's tourism industry.

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Arun's tourist information manager Jenny Gingell said that most hotels and B&Bs were pretty full, with just a few places left.

"Everyone I have spoken to says they are enjoying a great start to the season. The Visitor Information Centre has been busy and day trips are completely booked up."

In addition, Littlehampton Museum has been busy with school parties and other visitors.

"The popular exhibitions have brought people in from outside the area, which is very positive," added Jenny.

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Twelve new pontoons have been built along the east side of the River Arun, specifically for visiting yachts, between Arun Parade and the northern boundary of Town Quay.

The Westerly Owner's Club was the first to make a booking and has reserved moorings for 20 yachts for its rally in May.

"This is certainly a good start and I think this shows that things are getting back to normal again," said John Sharwood from the Littlehampton Harbour Office.

A shower and toilet block for visiting yachstmen is being built within the new harbour office and the pontoons are being fitted with water and electricity supplies as well as low level lighting. Work on this is due to be completed in May.

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The 1.5 million Littlehampton youth hostel opened for business on April 1 as part of the East Bank regeneration project.

Situated next door to the Look & Sea Visitor Centre, due to open in May, It is aimed at customers of all age groups and walks of life and resident warden Beth Vaughan says this rings true with the bookings.

"We have had bookings for quite a few older people as well as young parents with small children. This facility is something that the Youth Hostel Association has needed for a long time. It's a great building in a superb location and people of all ages want to stay here."

Accommodation at the new hostel is bright and welcoming with smaller, family-friendly rooms available with double beds and en-suite facilities.