Whitstable has topped a list of the fastest growing seaside resorts in the UK.

According to research by the Civil Service Motoring Association [CSMA] the coastal towns of Whitstable and Herne Bay have been enjoying an 11% increase in popularity - seeing more and more businesses setting up shop. The research group Local Futures based the figures on the number of businesses in 2003 compared to 2008.

But Ruth Wood from Visit Kent said they are not surprised by the boom in business as many companies have reinvented themselves, offering more than just donkey rides on the beach and a round of crazy golf.

Instead attractions like the Turner Contemporary in Margate and the Whitstable Oyster Festival are part of the revival in seaside resorts.

Ms Wood said: "Whitstable has always had a really good reputation partly down to the food and over a third of its shops are independent retailers."

There are new high quality restaurants opening all the time, so you are seeing investment."

She added: "In Margate, where Turner is, 14 new businesses have opened in the town, there's a real spin-off effect which is great to see."

According to a new survey by VisitEngland, Brits are also spending a quarter more of their cash at the coast this summer compared to last year.

Ms Wood said: "Definitely the staycation phenomenon is here to stay, people have less money and want to visit local places."