Our picturesque seaside village is becoming a ghost town because of selfish second home owners…only 14 people live here

: "It's really peaceful here on days like this, and there's no traffic. It used to never get too busy, but after the first lockdown there were lots of people flocking here.

"Limited parking does generally ensure the village doesn't get too busy even in the summer months.

"I think there are 14 permanent residents here. In my lifetime though, it's always been holiday accommodation in the majority."

The frustrated local described a lack of shopping amenities in the area and claimed "most families would struggle to actually live here".

"There are only three houses with their own parking - everyone else uses the dedicated residents' car park," he added.

He also explained second home buyers have caused property prices to soar and leave "only one cottage on the market at a time".

The attention Runswick Bay garnered during lockdown worsened the issue, according to the café owner, who said: " When it's too heaving, everyone's experience is degraded."

Another disappointed local said: "Runswick has changed so much over the years - I remember there being way more permanent residents.

"I also remember there used to be a busy locals' bar and that's quite sad that it's gone. Like anywhere, the locals have been priced out.

"Houses don't come to market very often and when they do they're very expensive."

One couple, Graham and Lane, said: "It's beautiful, but I can't imagine raising teenagers or anything here or trying to find a job.

"You'd have to work remotely or commute somewhere else.

"There isn't any shops in the village either and there isn't a train station close either."

However, some local business owners and managers have praised the tourism and feel a sense of pride in the village.

Tom Rose, who has managed the Royal Hotel for two years explained: "Everyone who comes in is lovely, probably because they're all in holiday mode!

"We do get some locals who come in and they're lovely too. A lot of them have family, like grandchildren, who will come and stay and work here for the summer."

I think there are 14 permanent residents here. In my lifetime though, it's always been holiday accommodation in the majority

Cafe owner

Helen and Richard Foster, from Lincolnshire and visiting Runswick Bay said: "We just love this area, even though it's quite touristy.

"Even though it's grey today, we've had a lovely time walking along the whole beach."

It comes as seaside towns across the UK are beginning to struggle with the burden of second home owners.

An idyllic Cornish seaside town has also become overrun with Londoners snapping up homes.

Padstow in North Cornwall boasts glorious golden beaches and picturesque countryside - but now its popularity is wreaking havoc with the local community.

The residents in this tourism hotspot are facing a major housing crisis as demand for accommodation and second homes drives house prices sky high.