SOUTHEND’S airport boss has denied plans for the sale and redevelopment of the terminal are in trouble because of turmoil in financial markets.

South East Essex Friends of the Earth suggested the multimillion-pound plans could be in jeapordy because City Airport, widely tipped as the successful bidder, is owned by American insurer AIG.

However, Alastair Welch, managing director of Southend Airport, hit back at the claim, which he called "irresponsible". He insisted he had never named any potential bidder for the airport.

FULL REPORT IN MONDAY'S ECHO