IT IS one of the county’s most popular landmarks and loved by thousands. But there are very few opportunities each year to walk from the beach at Eastbourne along to the Beachy Head Lighthouse.

It is rare as a low spring tide must occur at the right time during daylight hours to enable people to walk around the building.

One such opportunity is on Saturday, and about 1,000 people have already signed up to take part.

The walk is organised annually by Eastbourne AM Rotary Club and this will be the fifth year.

Spokesman Martin Wellings said: “This is a rare chance to see this amazing tourist attraction.

“It all started back in 2013 when we co-ordinated a fundraising campaign to have the famous red stripes painted. It was great to see the lighthouse given a lick of paint.

“Our Save the Stripes public campaign raised £27,000 to fund the work after the owner Trinity House said in 2011 the cost of repainting the lighthouse could not be justified.

“It’s now looking fabulous and Saturday is a great chance for the public to come and complete the walk.”

Members of the public are invited to join the walk.

You are invited to turn up at The Kiosk at Holywell, King Edward’s Parade.

Mr Wellings said: “The starting point is the kiosk at the foot of the Downs by Bede’s School between 4pm and 5.15pm.

“Once checked-in, we set off across the Downs to Cow Gap, about 15-20 minutes, down the steps to the beach and over the rocks, boulders, sand and slippery seaweed to the lighthouse, about 55 minutes.”

You cannot now pre-register due to high demand but you can turn up on the day.