The only way is Cornwall – or is it Devon? EasyJet to launch new Southend-Newquay route

EasyJet is to launch new Southend-Newquay route (PA )

The only way is Cornwall - or is it Devon? The latest flight from Southend revealed by easyJet departs from the second Essex airport, destination Newquay. The two resorts will be linked from 20 June next year.

But the airline claims the new link to North Cornwall will open up a fast connection to the English Riviera - the towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, more than 80 miles away in South Devon.

Hugh Aitken, easyJet's UK Commercial Manager, said: "The new service makes the South West much more accessible, and certainly a lot faster to reach than the current road or rail alternatives."

Alastair Welch, Southend airport's Managing Director, said: "Destinations such as St Ives and the Eden project are now just 60 minutes flight time away, instead of a six-hour car or nine-hour train journey".

It is the first flight to another destination in mainland Britain from the upgraded Southend airport since its £100m refurbishment. The lowest fare for a single passenger on the new link is £36.

Ryanair flew to Newquay from the other Essex airport, Stansted, for a time, but abandoned the link for more profitable routes. Flybe operates between Gatwick and Newquay, with fares from £47.