Actress Jessica Hynes and her husband Adam have become patrons of the project to restore the Leas Lift.

The much-loved Folkestone landmark is one of only three funicular railways in the country with its original water balance system in place.

Its condition has deteriorated substantially and the Leas Lift is now on Historic England's Heritage at Risk Register.

This is a register of historic buildings and structures of national significance which are considered at risk of loss or permanent damage.

Jessica Hynes, who has starred in TV comedy hits such as Spaced and W1A, said: "Adam and I are delighted to be patrons of this wonderful project.

"As a Folkestone resident, I think the Leas Lift is an important part of the local landscape.

"It also serves an important function by providing step-free access from seafront to the Leas, helping people with mobility problems. Like so many people we were upset when the Lift was closed, and it is a privilege to play in a part in bringing it back to life."

Cathy Beare, chairman of the Folkestone Leas Lift Company CIO, said: "We are thrilled that Jessica and Adam have kindly agreed to be patrons of our transformational project.

"Leas Lift is hugely important both to local residents and to the nation and we hope that the community will join Jessica and Adam in helping to bring it back into public use, attracting larger and broader audiences."

Exciting new images showing how the historic cliff-side lift could be transformed and expanded were revealed last week.

The lift has been closed since 2017 but will be brought back to life after a series of expensive repairs and renovations.

Funding has so far come from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, S106 contributions and other donations. But more will need to be raised before a further £3.5m lottery funding can be applied for.

The funicular railway, which connects the town to the seafront, was built in 1885 and is one of only eight water balance lifts in the country.

Visitor facilities, such as the waiting room and ticket office, will be made over, while a glass window will be installed, allowing visitors the opportunity to view inside the pump room and its machinery and equipment.