The largest stretch of water in the South East is to be sold.

Southern Water has put a 99- year leasehold for Bewl Water on the market.

The reservoir, near Wadhurst, was made in 1975 and has been developed for a range of recreational activities, including fishing and sailing.

It is being marketed by Humberts Leisure, based in New Road, Brighton.

The firm's sale brochure states: "The direct provision of recreation is not a core function of the utility business and the company now offers a long lease of the recreational business for sale to a suitably experienced operator."

The lake spans more than 770 acres and has 17 miles of shoreline.

The site also includes 70 acres of land, a visitors' centre, restaurants and gift shop.

A spokeswoman for Southern Water said: "Southern Water is reviewing the way in which its recreational facilities are operated at Bewl Water as part of the company's continuing commitment to looking at ways of improving services to customers who use the facilities there.

"We can assure customers we are seeking to protect and enhance the services on offer at the reservoir.

"Staff and service providers at Bewl Water are being kept fully informed about the review process."

The lease also includes a clause for Southern Water to continue pumping water from the reservoir.

The sale brochure states: "Applicants should be aware that water levels have been and may be affected by the needs of water supply and periods of low rainfall."