BEACH huts in the prestigious resort of Southwold are highly sought after and can set you back around �80,000 - there are even rumours the �100,000 barrier has been topped.

BEACH huts in the prestigious resort of Southwold are highly sought after and can set you back around �80,000 - there are even rumours the �100,000 barrier has been topped.

But a businesswoman is hoping her latest venture will offer holidaymakers a little respite in the fight to claim one of the esteemed shelters.

Pam Jackson, who owns Southwold Boating Lakes and Caf�, is building eight new picnic huts opposite the town's pier.

She is hoping holiday makers will rent them daily or for the whole week - offering them something a little bit different from the traditional beach huts usually on offer.

The 48-year-old said: 'They look like beach huts but they are not on the beach - they are in the grounds at the boating lake.

'I've been here for seven years and quite often people will ask where they can hire huts from. They get rented out very quickly so I thought I'd give it a go.

'Obviously dogs aren't allowed on the beach all through the summer but we do allow dogs over here. There has been quite a lot of interest so far.'

Mrs Jackson, who has been helped out by her neighbour and her two children, Joe, 22, and Jessica, 19, said she originally wanted to build 15 huts but was told that was too many.

'There was a little bit of opposition at first - people were concerned that the views would be blocked but all we've cut out is the car park,' Mrs Jackson said. 'My neighbour has built the sheds and I've been painting them myself with the help of my children.

'I will rent them out in conjunction with the caf�. The plan is to provide complimentary tea and coffee for first time users.

'People can also buy food at the caf� to eat at the huts or they can go and get fish and chips or bring their own - it's entirely up to them. We will provide tables, chairs and wind breaks.'

Mrs Jackson said she was hoping to rent the huts - which could be ready by the weekend - for �15 a day, or with a discount for the whole week.

Anyone who would like more information can contact her on 07939 410182.