A PRESTIGIOUS conservation title hoped to make Manningtree and Mistley tourist havens could be delayed for up to three years.

Campaigners were hopeful last month the southern shore of the River Stour would be made an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty within 12 months.

But a recent meeting has suggested the approval could still be years away.

Mistley Parish Council chairman Martin Rayner said: “It is disappointing.

“We thought it was all going to be pushed through.”