Stunning string lights illuminating a stretch of the Kent coast will remain permanently in place once shooting of a Hollywood film ends.

Bosses from Neal Street Productions have confirmed the decorative bulbs that stretch for more than half-a-mile along Margate seafront will be gifted to the town.

The display was erected by crews filming Empire of Light, a flick written and directed by Oscar-winner Sam Mendes that is set to star Olivia Colman and Colin Firth.

Neal Street Productions co-founder Dame Pippa Harris said: "From the very first moment we discussed having the festoon lighting along the promenade it was always our hope to gift the lights to the town.

"We have received such a warm welcome and so much support from the people of Margate that we would be thrilled for the lights to stay and be something that will be enjoyed by the town and its visitors for years to come."

This comes in the wake of calls from Labour councillor Rob Yates for the lights to stay.

The politician says there was "overwhelming support" from locals to keep them, with many feeling safer walking along the stretch at night now that it has been illuminated.

Reacting to today's announcement, he told KentOnline: "Residents and businesses support keeping these lights for security reasons.

"It also reminds a lot of people of Margate in its heyday. It shows the town's developing and growing.

"I'm confident we can work out a way to find someone to operate and maintain them."

Helmed by Mr Mendes - who directed 1917, American Beauty and Bond films Skyfall and Spectre - Empire of Light is understood to be a love story set in and around a cinema during the 1980s.

Parts of Margate have been transformed, with Dreamland made to look like a retro-looking picture house named the Empire and the seafront lit up between Nayland Rock and the Turner Contemporary.

Dreamland CEO Eddie Kemsley added: "When we started our conversations with Neal Street Productions about this amazing film coming to Margate, we discussed how this project could leave a lasting legacy for the town.

"The festoon lights strung along the parade have not only sparked positive conversations, but also illuminated our beautiful seafront.

"We’re thrilled that they will continue to do so after filming has ended.

"There’s still work to do and a way to go with practicalities, but we’re sure the whole community will join us in thanking Neal Street Productions for their generous gift."

Filming of Empire of Light started two weeks ago, with the seafront turned into a winter wonderland with fake snow. It is expected to continue until May 21.