COMMITMENT was the name of the game at Avon Beach in Christchurch as dedicated residents got their hands on prized seasonal beach huts.

The picturesque tourist spot at Mudeford again proved a popular draw for locals keen to make sure they got a spot at the beach for the summer.

Around 30 people were in the queue for the beach huts, with many arriving in the early hours of Monday morning.

And Keith Duell, 68, who has camped outside the shop for five days and nights, was first in line to put his name against the only full summer season beach hut available this year.

The hut, which costs £850 a year, is so sought after because families can then keep them until they choose to give them up.

Keith said: “I will be very glad to freshen up, let me tell you.

“I am looking forward to getting home, having a shower and then settling down with a full English breakfast in the comfort of my own home.”

On Sunday, Keith was joined by a handful of fellow queue-mates for the final overnight stay with many hoping to get one of the six-week time periods available.

Jackie Hiscock, 56, from Mudeford, who claimed second place, said: “I’ve had friends who have done this for years.

“There were six of us here last night and the new owners put on a barbecue and lit a big fire for the group.

“It was a great atmosphere and everyone has been really friendly.”

Rachel Chard, 37, from New Milton, said: “It’s been really sociable and you see people in the queue that you then see again in the summer.

“My friend did it last year so this time I’ve come down to get a few weeks in the summer holidays.”

Nicky Hollyoake, 39, who was queuing for her friend Sara Breckon from Highcliffe, said: “I’ve done it before – last year and the year before. But this time I’m here for a friend.

“I had a really good time last year so really didn’t mind. It was a good laugh and the barbecue was a great idea.”