A DINER on the A12 is "in despair" as their Wifi has not been fixed since they opened.

The Empire Diner, on the A12 at Rivenhall End, has been experiencing BT Wifi problems since their opening day in June.

After being promised two repair dates, in August and October, the problem has still not been fixed.

Owner Mark Mascar has complained to the Ombudsman and was given another date for November 18.

He said: "The stress and damage to our new business is devastating.

"Last Sunday, we were at full capacity serving breakfasts when the internet went down again, without warning.

"Unfortunately one table’s order didn’t go through to the kitchen and they became very irate.

"Our waitress became very distressed and I apologised to the customers and explained the issue with BT internet.

"I gave them 20 per cent off their bill and offered free drink but unfortunately this wasn’t enough and they left one star reviews on trip advisor and Google Business.

"Several other customers complained and the situation got worse as card payments couldn’t go through, which meant we had to make customers wait at the till until the hub was re-booted.

"Our reputation is being severely damaged. We are in despair."

He said he felt powerless and did not want the business to suffer.

He added: "We have a great business opportunity here and have quickly become a part of the community.

"We feel that we are constantly fighting bigger powers and not getting anywhere."

An Openreach spokesman from BT said: “An underground cable fault has been detected affecting service in the Rivenhall End area.

"Permissions from the local highways authority and council have been sought for traffic lights to be in place, so that the work can be carried out safely. "The engineering repair work will be on the busy A12 Northbound and is scheduled for November 18.

"The work will be completed during the night, so less traffic will be affected. We are working as fast as we can to restore service as soon as possible and we are sorry for the inconvenience caused.”