WORTHING’S big wheel is open for business.

The seafront attraction has welcomed its first customers ahead of its grand opening this Friday.

Worthing Borough Council says the wheel is part of its plan “to evolve the seafront and town centre into compelling destination for visitors and residents alike”.

Work on the south coast’s biggest wheel began on July 4 as a team of builders lifted the 46-metre high beast into place.

The Worthing promenade was closed as two cranes erected the massive structure.

The Worthing Observation Wheel was partly assembled in Holland and brought to England by eight lorries.

Campaigners fought plans for the wheel, describing it as a "horror".