HISTORIC artefacts from the West Pier have gone on sale.

Two cast iron seat backs which were recovered in the 1990s from the famed Brighton structure are up for grabs on eBay as campaigners try to raise cash to restore an original octagonal 1866 pier kiosk to put back on the city’s seafront.

The artefacts, which were going for £500 each as of yesterday, are on sale until Sunday.

The West Pier Trust, which owns the burnt-out structure and the surrounding land, is the seller.

Rachel Clark, chief executive of the trust, said: “Seeking the support of West Pier lovers everywhere, the West Pier Trust is inviting members of the public to bid for artefacts which were recovered from the pier in the 1990s.

“These are beautiful and unique cast iron pieces with some minor damage.

“Unlike previous sales, the material has been cleaned, revealing the exquisite detail and fine workmanship of the pieces.

“Uncleaned items will also be available for those wishing to have the original paint finishes.

“Each piece will come with a certificate of authenticity.

“There is a limited selection available and all funds raised will go towards the restoration of an octagonal kiosk that was once a magnificent part of Eugenius Birch’s original masterpiece.

“When it opens, the kiosk will be the oldest pier structure in the world and the nation’s first Seaside Learning Centre.

“It will host an imaginative programme of activities and events designed to attract and benefit people of all ages, including residents and visitors to the city.”

The West Pier was built in 1866 and became the first in the country to be listed as Grade I. But it stopped operating in 1975 and was torched under mysterious circumstances in March 2003.

Its burnt skeleton has stood there ever since, though, and the blackened structure remains a well-known British landmark.

The regeneration of the area near the pier and the i360 is being carried out in collaboration with Brighton and Hove City Council.

The current design phase, which includes the kiosk being restored, is estimated to cost about £115,000, most of which has already been raised.

This auction is “intended to close the funding gap”.

The entire project is currently estimated to cost £1 million, but there will be a clearer figure when this phase is finished.

To bid on the artefacts, go to ebay.co.uk and search westpiertrust. Bidding ends at 8pm.