A RESTAURANT is dishing out free slices of pizza to the first thousand people to visit its new branch.

Pizza Pilgrims is opening in Ship Street, Brighton, and is offering the giveaway to celebrate.

The restaurant, which is over three floors, has a three-a-side football pitch in the basement, while pizza and gelato are served above.

Brothers James and Thom Elliot launched their brand in 2011 in London and say they cannot wait to get started in Sussex.

The Argus: James and Thom ElliotJames and Thom Elliot

“We are really excited to be opening in Brighton,” said Thom, who also lives in the city.

“The building we’ve found is really a beautiful one and has given us the opportunity to flex our muscles a bit on some fun bits and bobs, while sticking to our focus of making great, authentic Neapolitan pizza.

“We’re so pleased to have had such a warm welcome from the community too and have worked with so many amazing charities, artists, and tradespeople from Brighton already.”

The pair spent six weeks travelling across Italy to discover the best pizza making methods and are confident it will do well in Brighton.

The free slices are available on Monday between noon and 3pm.