Sleepy Mistley Quay in Essex has been at the centre of a row over access. The 18th century quay on the River Stour on the Essex/Suffolk border is regularly used by yachtsman visiting the nearby pub, the Thorn.

Owners of the quay, Trent Wharfage, have restricted access by building a fence across the highway, after warnings by the Health and Safety Executive to improve safety at the site.

Around 150 people packed into Mistley Village Hall last week to protest at the erection of the fence without notice or planning consent, which will block public access from land and water.

Campaigners, calling themselves Free the Quay are to pursue legal action to stop the fence and to preserve public access to the quay and quayside. Find out more at www.freethequay.org