THE entrepreneur best known for his love of gold may be the new owner of Hastings Pier by the end of today.

Sheikh Abid Gulzar, 73, already owns Eastbourne Pier and he has caused controversy by painting parts of the iconic site gold.

It has emerged he is now the front runner to buy the troubled Hastings Pier.

But it appears locals are not happy.

Last night supporters of Hastings Pier held a protest.

Hastings Pier Charity which ran the award-winning Grade II listed structure entered administration last November.

Local campaigners have raised more than £430,000 through crowdfunding and want more time to reach the £500,000 needed to keep it in community ownership.

Sheikh Gulzar has refused to comment.