Eastbourne Pier has been named one of Britain's top ten tourist attractions.

It was named the ninth best free attraction in Britain by tourist centres across the country and is the only pier in the UK to be listed.

Judges were impressed with its Victorian charm and features such as the Camera Obscura, which sits in a dome and offers 360-degree views around the seafront.

The pier also boasts a restaurant, bars, arcades and a nightclub.

Graeme Sanderson, general manager of the pier, said: " I'm absolutely delighted Eastbourne's pier has received the recognition it deserves at last.

"What makes it stand out are the special events we put on."

Friday August 1, 2003