The pier dates back to 1869

Trustees of Clevedon pier in North Somerset have raised millions of pounds towards its upkeep, but say they have had no support.

Now they are pulling out of the project, despite raising �4m for restoration since the pier collapsed in 1971.

They were counting on being given part of a nearby hotel for a tea room once it was redeveloped, which would have brought in capital but now it is to be converted into flats.

Simon Talbot-Ponsonby of the pier's heritage trust said: "We need money for the long-term maintenance of the pier.

"It operates very well on a day-to-day basis but we need to build up a substantial capital sum for the long term maintenance of the pier including repainting in five to 10 years' time."

'Planning system'

The trustees have written to North Somerset District Council asking it to take over the lease and finance the running of what is England's sole grade-one-listed pier.

But councillors are reluctant to become involved.

Councillor Peter Burden said: "I don't see how you can expect your neighbour to contribute to the renovation of the building next door.

"I don't see any role in the planning system for that to happen."

The pier was built in 1869 using surplus rails from Brunel's Great Western Railway.

Poet John Betjeman in 1979 said: "Clevedon without its pier would be a diamond with a flaw."