Work to restore Britain's oldest surviving rollercoaster - the Scenic Railway at Dreamland in Margate - is starting today.

The 94-year-old ride at the seafront attraction was badly damaged in an arson attack six years ago, but could reopen with the rest of the theme park next year.

Initial work recording the grade II* listed building and structure for historic purposes has already started, but today the dismantling of the buildings and structure will begin.

The restoration to its former glory will include the replacement of the foundations on which new timber trusses will be erected.

The work is scheduled to be completed ahead of the opening of a re-imagined Dreamland amusement park next year.

Dreamland project director Eddie Kemsley said: "This is an important milestone in Dreamland's history and is symbolic of the enormous achievement of the Dreamland Trust's 'Save Dreamland' campaign.

"Work on the Scenic Railway is one of many crucial steps in our work towards opening a re-imagined Dreamland."

Award-winning designer Wayne Hemingway is working to create a vintage-style amusement park.

Attractions will include thrill rides to classic sideshows alongside cafes, restaurants and shops.

During the re-building works, The Dreamland Trust will continue to host an exhibition on Dreamland's history and future.

The Dreamland Expo describes the revivial of Dreamland and has so far seen more than 25,000 visitors.

Thanet council leader Cllr Iris Johnston said: "The Scenic Railway is synonymous with Dreamland and the Council is very proud to be leading the way, breathing life into Dreamland once again."

The Dreamland Expo is free and open weekends from 10am to 5pm.

For more information, visit www.dreamlandmargate.com or phone 01843 295 887.

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