An historic fountain will be given a facelift before taking up its new position as the centrepiece of a new square.

The dolphin-topped drinking fountain on the corner of Langney Road and Seaside, Eastbourne, first unveiled in 1865, has been decaying.

But a meeting last week, Eastbourne Borough Council agreed a £15,000 grant should be spent on saving the Grade II listed fountain.

Funding has been put forward by the borough council, the East Sussex County Council Conservation Area Scheme, and the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The cast-iron structure was donated by Elizabeth Curling and was adorned originally with a lantern and raised on three stone steps.

Part of the restoration work will involve re-engraving the brass inscription plates and analysing the paint work so the original colour scheme can be matched.

New natural stone steps will be constructed and the fountain placed in Seahouses Square on the seafront.

This will be the second time the landmark has been relocated. It was moved from the centre of Seaside to its present location in the Fifties.

Councillor Graham Marsden, leader of the council, said: "Although Eastbourne is a forward looking town, it is important to recognise our heritage.

"This is an excellent example of Victorian street furniture and it deserves to be restored."

It is hoped the project to revamp the fountain will be completed in time for an official unveiling at Christmas.