THE new owner of Eastbourne Pier has been given a top award by a charity celebrating its 50th birthday in 2015.

Sheikh Abid Gulzar has been supporting SASBAH - the Sussex Association for spina bifida and hydrocephalus - for many years.

At a business breakfast he was made an Ambassador of SASBAH - and said he was truly delighted and proud.

He is pictured being congratulated by Eastbourne Mayor Janet Coles.

Rom Sanglaji, CEO of SASBAH, said, 'Mr Gulzar has been an absolute star to our charity with committed support. Our families are very grateful to him.'