SEASIDE amusement arcades in resorts like Margate, Ramsgate and Broadstairs could be saved from pending Government restrictions if a national campaign wins enough support.

The British Amusement Catering Trades Association announced Game On! at an international trades exhibition in London. It says that measures in Sir Alan Budd’s report as part of a Gaming Board review would be disastrous for seaside towns where the number of pay-to-play machines will be restricted.

Thanet South MP Stephen Ladyman was at the exhibition. He said: “Amusement arcades offer good family entertainment and are part of the fun at the seaside. It is these family-run businesses that will be at risk. I don’t want to see job losses caused by the Budd report happen in Ramsgate.”

Arcade owner Jim Godden, who runs Dreamland fun park at Margate and the Rotunda amusement centre at Folkestone, said: “It has been hard enough recently to maintain investment in this business. If these proposals are implemented it would be a kick in the teeth as we would face damaging and unnecessary restrictions coupled with a constant threat of closure.”

Campaigners want in-depth research into the use of machines in arcades, pubs and clubs as well as on proposals to limit stakes and prizes.

A BACTA spokesman said: “Seaside resorts are economically fragile and the Budd recommendations could threaten investment to these areas. Family amusement arcades are one of the main reasons why people still visit the British seaside.”