A historic park fountain that ran dry almost four decades ago could flow once again after a lengthy campaign to restore it to its former glory.

The water feature had been "the jewel in the crown" of Margate's Dane Park after being installed in 1898, but in recent years, has fallen into a neglected state.

The landmark now sits fenced off, with weeds growing where water once flowed.

But now, the tired structure could be brought back into use thanks to potential investment from Southern Water as part of its Pathfinder project.

Photographer Frank Leppard has been campaigning for the fountain's renovation for six years.

He said: "I have two grand-daughters and we go to the park quite often.

"I dream that they will be able to see the fountain in its glory like I used to as a child."

His original campaign in 2016 unfortunately fell through as he "found it terribly hard to find the support and backing to get the ball rolling".

"We couldn't get the funding - the council weren't interested," he said.

Now, Southern Water has begun discussions with Thanet District Council about stepping in and investing in the fountain.

A company spokesperson said: "At a recent meeting held with councillors, Dane Park and the fountain was discussed as being one of our possible projects as part of the Pathfinder Project – however, we are still in early discussions and are only at concept design.

"Over the coming weeks we will develop this idea further as well as liaising with other local groups and charities."

Mr Leppard told KentOnline: "We are hoping it will all go through and if that actually happens, it will mean better things for the park.

"The fountain is the jewel in the crown and it will be the catalyst for great things to happen in the future for the rest of Dane Park."

The picturesque park has a rich history. It was previously a patch of farmland, until it was bought by local resident John Woodward in 1895.

The park was officially opened by the Lord Mayor in 1898, and had a large lake with rustic bridges, as well as a bandstand.

The lake was used by swans, peacocks and small row boats, until it was sadly closed in the 1970s.

It was then filled in, and the demise of the fountain soon followed.

Mr Leppard met with the great-great nephew of the park's founder, also called John Woodward, last year, when he planted a tree in his relative's memory.

Labour councillor for Margate Central, Rob Yates, said: "The reopening of Dane Park fountain would be very welcome by local residents.

"Given recent conversations with Southern Water, I know that they are seriously considering the option of part-funding it's reopening."

Cllr Yates believes such funding could "improve Southern Water's reputation" and "dig them out of a hole" after recent suspected sewage dumping in Margate.

"Come along and show your support for public improvements at an upcoming Southern Water event in Ramsgate," Cllr Yates added.

Southern Water is holding a Thanet Information Evening at the Comfort Inn, Ramsgate at 6pm on Monday, December 12.