A SHOPPING centre is giving away a free year-long lease at one of its stores.

One lucky business will win its own shopping space in The Beacon in Eastbourne next to industry giants such as Next and JD Sports.

Manager William Plumridge said he was looking for “innovative and interesting concepts” to foster at the centre.

“We know just how important independent shops, restaurants and leisure operators are to the local area,” he said.

“We’re looking for innovative and interesting concepts from local entrepreneurial individuals or organisations that want to take their businesses to the next level or even just get a great idea they have off the ground.

“We’re open to a range of concepts and suggestions that people feel will add something different to the shopping centre and to the town.”

Businesses will first have to tell The Beacon what will set them apart from other shops in the area.

Firms will then be whittled down to a shortlist, with the winners asked to pitch their ideas to an expert panel.

To enter, visit thebeaconeastbourne.com.