Husband and wife take over historic pier

Amy Barwick and her husband Charles, from Southwold, said they had long-term investment plans to refurbish the pier

A husband and wife team have become the new owners of Southwold Pier.

Amy and Charles Barwick purchased the 810ft-long (247m) pier for an undisclosed sum, from the previous owner Curious Pier Limited, which is part of the Gough Hotels group.

The couple, who are from the Suffolk town, said they had long-term investment plans.

Ms Barwick said they were "excited" to start running the attraction, which was first built in 1900.

The previous owner of the pier wished the Barwicks "every success"

The couple's company, Pineapple Events Solutions based in Surrey, manages attractions including Christmas markets, theme parks, music festivals and sporting events across the UK.

Mr Barwick said: “We are looking at an initial light refurbishment in places, but this will be phased, as we plan to keep the other areas open to the public as we go."

Robert Gough, managing director of Gough Hotels, said: “We have enjoyed running the pier over the last 10 years and have appreciated the hard work of local staff who have dedicated themselves to look after all our visitors.

"We wish Amy and Charles every success in the future.”