A cliff-top hotel is set to be converted into a community space.

Plans to create a brand-new community space at the former Birling Gap Hotel have moved a step closer after the National Trust was awarded a grant of more than £27,000 from The Veolia Environmental Trust.

The former hotel has been owned and run by the National Trust since 2010 but much of its space has been left unused.

The new learning space will be available for use by groups including the East Dean History Society, local geology groups and local schools, as well as for events, fairs, clubs and private hire.