They’ve hit the jackpot! Friends of Herne Bay Clock Tower are celebrating after securing £250,000 of heritage lottery funding.

Exciting proposals to restore the historic seafront landmark were put forward by Canterbury City Council in partnership with the friends community group.

They include a major refurbishment of the structure, new educational activities, modern lighting and a visitor attraction.

Friends chairman Julian Jennings said: “I’m excited about the prospect we have before us. The Clock Tower is an icon that represents and promotes the town.

“It’s very important and is a focal point for the community. So this is an important initiative to restore a much -oved historical building and open a new chapter in its life.

“It gives residents the chance to bring the past to life and be part of community involvement.

“That’s our job going forward. We want to inspire and enthuse people to get involved with the project.”

The council is allocating £100,000 for the project as part of its regeneration plan, which will see the Pier Trust vacate its shop in Central Parade to make way for the new visitor attraction.

Overseeing the project, Cllr Peter Lee (Con) said: “So much hard work went into the bid for this Heritage Lottery Fund grant and I am very pleased for everyone who has been involved that we have been successful. It really is fantastic news.

“The people of Herne Bay love their Clock Tower. It’s wonderful that we will now be able to fully restore it and create a new attraction on the seafront for people to visit, learn about and enjoy.”

The original project began in autumn 2012, and work preparing the lottery bid has been ongoing since.

Stuart McLeod. head of the Heritage Lottery Fund South East, said: “Herne Bay Clock Tower is a powerful reminder of the town’s Victorian heritage and a well-loved landmark for local people and visitors.

“Our funding will help restore the historic clock and a put on a range of activities and events enabling local people to learn about its importance and enjoy it long into the future.”

Other activities will include publishing an updated version of a book about the Clock Tower by local historian Mike Bundock and the development of culture and heritage walks around the town in partnership with Herne Bay Improvement Trust.

Meanwhile, two winning designs for the new logo were announced by the Bay Promo Team on Monday this week.

Canterbury Christ Church University undergraduate Chris Hoare won the main prize, while eight-year-old Elsa Deeson’s colourful design will be used in the educational facilities.