A run-down railway station is in for a major revamp following complaints from commuters.

Railtrack has announced it will begin a £685,000 facelift for Bexhill station this autumn.

Work on the Grade II listed Victorian building will begin in November.

Years of campaigning resulted in the formation of a station working party by Bexhill Town Forum three years ago.

Rother Council served an enforcement notice on Railtrack two years ago to force them into action to restore the dilapidated station.

Local children helped by making a mural for the platform which was unveiled by comedian Eddie Izzard, who grew up in the resort.

Eddie's father, John, who still lives in the town, was a member of the panel pushing for improvements.

The scheduled works include a new roof, lighting and repairs to the booking hall ceiling, forecourt, platform surfacing and brickwork.

Margaret Jones, chairman of the town forum, said: "We've been waiting a long time for this. We've been trying to push Railtrack along and now things seem to be happening at last.

"At the moment the station is in a terrible state. It is supposed to be the gateway to the town.

"People arrive from all over the world to see the De La Warr Pavilion and they are being greeted by a horrible run-down station."

Railtrack is to hold talks with the council about redeveloping the station walkways and other improvements.

The station will remain in use while the work, due to be completed next year, is carried out.