A historic fountain has received national recognition after a £400,000 restoration project.

The Victoria Fountain, in Brighton’s Old Steine, was announced as the winner of the "Refurbishment Project Category" at the Institution of Structural Engineers South Eastern awards.

This comes after the fountain underwent a year-long refurbishment project and was switched on this month ahead of the spring and summer seasons.

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The restoration began in December 2022 when the fountain was dismantled and transported to Leicester for specialist work.

This was managed by Brighton and Hove City Council's property and design team who worked closely  with HOP consulting engineers.

In spring last year the fountain was returned to the Old Steine and reassembled on a new reinforced concrete base.

It was fitted with new electrics, pumps, water pipes and a lighting scheme which has been designed to produce different colours to mark special events.

City council leader Bella Sankey said: "Seeing the iconic Victoria Fountain restored to its former glory was one of the highlights of last year and to discover that it has now won a major award is the icing on the cake.

"I’m delighted to see our two historic fountains have now been switched back on, and that residents and visitors can enjoy the cascading water and stunning lighting effects all summer long.

"We remain committed to preserving and restoring Brighton and Hove’s precious heritage so that future generations can continue to enjoy our city’s fascinating and rich history."

A celebration of the fountain's restoration was held in October last year.

The fountain was first opened officially in 1846 on May 25 to mark the 27th birthday of Queen Victoria.

The ceremony featured a royal salute fired from the pier at noon, the same time the fountain was officially started.

Fireworks were held in the city that same day to mark the occasion.

In 1952, the fountain was given protection as a Grade II listed structure for its national importance.

The first restoration of the fountain began in 1990 and was completed before the 1995 visit of the Prince of Wales, now King Charles.