THE owner of Eastbourne Pier has invested in a new clock at the entrance to the site.

Sheikh Abid Gulzar welcomed around 100 members of the public for the unveiling on Friday.

Also present were Eastbourne MP Stephen Lloyd, council leader David Tutt and Councillor Jim Sheppard, vice chairman of the county council.

Mr Gulzar said: “I have invested heavily into the new clock.

“It’s very expensive and it has four faces so you will be able to see it whichever angle you are looking at it.

“It’s not been working for more than 15 years, which is a very long time.

“Now it’s up and can be seen, I hope people like the blue and gold colours.

“I’m very proud of it, it’s going to be a focal point for our wonderful town.”

Mr Gulzar now also owns Hastings Pier and he has just applied for planning permission for five new retail units.

The units are described in his application as ‘log cabin’ with glass windows and doors along with timber frames.

Mr Gulzar said: “We have to continue to make the open deck area of the pier more appealing.

“That is why we want permission for these five temporary units on the pier.

“We are asking for permission for five years and they will enhance the offering to people.”