The decaying monument is on the Buildings at Risk register

The Victorian Nelson's Monument, on the resort's seafront, has deteriorated to the point where is listed on the Buildings at Risk register.

An award of �846,000 by the Heritage Lottery Fund means vital repairs can be carried out on the 144 ft structure which will then be opened to visitors.

Norfolk Historic Buildings Trust and Great Yarmouth Borough Council have driven the restoration project for the Grade 1 listed tower.

Once the work is completed, links will be established with the town's Norfolk Nelson Museum, which opened last year to honour the county's most famous son, o promote community involvement.

We are delighted to reflect (the town's) rejuvenation by bringing Nelson's spirit to life for local people and visitors Robyn Greenblatt

Heritage Lottery Fund eastern regional manager Robyn Greenblatt said is was a great project and another piece of the jigsaw in Great Yarmouth's regeneration.

"Heritage sites have had a big role to play in building a sense of identity in the town and we are delighted to reflect this rejuvenation by bringing Nelson's spirit to life for local people and visitors," she said.

The monument was designed by William Wilkins, architect of the National Gallery, and was built between 1817 and 1819.