CRIME WAVES

Skegness, Cleethorpes & Margate top seaside offences league

- PHIL CARDY

AS the birthplace of Butlin's, it has been adored by generations of holidaymakers.

But analysis suggests the most crime-plagued seaside resort in the country is...Skegness.

"Skeggy", also fondly known as Skeg Vegas, has recorded a rate of 181 offences per 1,000 inhabitants - more than double the UK average of 87.

In contrast, the seaside town of Padstow in Cornwall where chef Rick Stein has four restaurants - is the safest seaside place, with just 14 offences per 1,000 people.

Skegness has been blighted by crime in recent years. Over the last Bank Holiday weekend alone, a man was shot in the leg with a pellet gun and a woman was assaulted.

Last month, five people were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a metal pole was used in an attack that left the victim with life-changing injuries.