Contractors in Hastings say they are struggling to cope with the demand to revitalise the resort due to a shortage of scaffolding.

A council clampdown on eyesore buildings, coupled with the town being highlighted nationally as a place for property investment has led to local construction firms being stretched to the limit.

Adrian Lay, manager of local firm Access Scaffolding, said: "We are very busy at the moment and finding it very difficult to meet demand."

Hastings Borough Council is running a campaign to stamp out negligent owners of buildings in a bid to smarten up the seafront.

Jeremy Birch, council leader, said: "Our enforcement staff are finding widespread support for the initiative for the improvement in appearance and conditions of seafront properties.

"We've also noted that improvement works have started on a number of other properties and it appears that this a direct result of our campaign to improve the appearance of the seafront."