Time capsule will raise funds for Leas Cliff Lift

The lift connects the beach with the promenade

People who want to support the restoration of a piece of remarkable Victorian engineering are being offered the opportunity to become part of the structure's history.

The Leas Cliff Lift in Folkestone, Kent, which links the town's promenade and seafront, celebrates its 140th birthday in 2025.

Donors to the campaign to keep it running are being offered the opportunity to have their names and messages placed into a time capsule in the building.

Powered by water, the Grade II* listed funicular is one of only eight left in the country.

The lift served Victorian and Edwardian visitors in its heyday

The time capsule will be marked with 104 brass plates fixed to the rail's sleepers and displayed at the site, with each one bearing a donor's name.

There are four levels of donation, £10, £100, £250 and £500, with the unveiling set for 27 September.

The lift celebrates its 140th birthday in 2025

Floortje Hoette, chief executive officer of the Folkestone Leas Lift Company charity, said: "For 140 years, the Leas Lift has been a timeless connection between Folkestone's past, present and future.

"This campaign allows people to become a part of that legacy while supporting the final stages of restoration."