Old-fashioned fun with modern look

THE good old British seaside might have taken a few knocks lately but there's one British institution that shows no signs of being washed up,Since 1936 when Billy Butlin opened his first holiday camp in Skegness, us Brits just can't get enough of Butlin's.

It's certainly changed over the years and, although the knobbly knee competition has had its day, there's still certainly plenty to keep us amused.

Butlin's knows how to keep kids happy and, more importantly, how to keep parents coming back time and time again.

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It's a long time since I've been to Butlin's but I loved the idea of sharing something with my family that had been so memorable to me as a child.

Since I was a youngster the Skegness site has had millions lavished on it and now it's a mecca of entertainment.

A noisy, fun-filled place where you can, with a bit of expertise, keep the kids busy without spending an extra penny.

We loved the free funfair and the kids loved the free toddler rides in Bob's Yard.

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They posed for photos with Bob the Builder, loved the clown show and danced with the Redcoats in Reds – the resort's vast clubhouse which has recently undergone a very modern facelift.

The accomodation, as anyone who has holidayed at Butlin's will know, is varied ranging from basic chalets to swish Gold apartments – not only spacious but well equipped with fridge, cooker, microwave, toaster and widescreen tv.

Even better was the inclusive breakfast and evening meal in the Yacht Club, the dining area exclusively for Gold customers.

The food was surprisingly good to say it was produced in such volume and if, like me, you're partial to school dinner-type puddings with custard then it's heaven.

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Butlin's is busy and noisy and won't suit everyone but for an affordable break with guaranteed entertainment it can't be beaten.

Better still, guests don't have to worry about unpredictable British weather.

The Skyline Pavilion – the huge indoor tented arena at the

centre of the resort – offers places to eat, shows, a cinema, bowling alley and amusements.

On site there's also an indoor play area, a vast swimming centre with flumes and regular appearances from kids' telly favourites.

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It's easy to forget the beach is just a stone's throw away if the sun shines.

This half term Milkshake Live will bring Noddy, Rupert Bear, Fifi and the Flowertots and Little Princess to Skegness.

For older kids there'll be Jetix Superheroes, Power Rangers, Totally Spies and Galactik Football.

Captain Pugwash has his own show and, if that's not enough, there's the famous Butlins mascot Billy Bear and the Red Coats.Factfile

A family break this half term (based on a family of four sharing a standard self-catering apartment) will cost from 59 per person.

To book a Butlin's break call 0870 162 1810 or visit www.butlins.com

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