Beach hut owners and chalet tenants at Felixstowe are holding a meeting this month to formally set up an association to fight for their rights and a fairer deal.

Around 150 of the resort’s 1,000 hut and chalet users have indicated they would be willing to join a group.

The idea was put forward after Suffolk Coastal this spring increased chalet rents by 20% and hut rents 12%.

Users of the holiday havens were furious and bombarded the council with complaints and took part in a protest march along the prom.

One couple even sawed a chunk off their hut to cut their rent bill.

The meeting to establish the group will take place at Felixstowe Trades and Labour Club, High Road West, at 7.30pm on Monday, June 24 when those attending will be asked to adopt a written constitution for the Felixstowe Beach Hut and Chalet Association and elect a committee .

Steering group member Trevor Mason said: “In the region of 150 people have so far indicated that they wish to join an association and they have all been invited to attend.

“Application forms will be sent to them and there will be forms available at the meeting.

“It is hoped that many other hut owners and chalet tenants will also join once the association has been formed.”

Suffolk Coastal, which nets £465,000 a year from the huts and chalets, says it needs to generate enough income to ensure it can still provide free services visitors enjoy, such as public toilets, and street cleansing.