Interactive map highlights coastal history

An interactive map has been launched to highlight historic coastal sites, including Bexhill's De La Warr Pavilion

An interactive map has been launched to help people discover the history behind coastal landmarks in the South East and beyond.

Sites including Bexhill's De La Warr Pavillion, The King's Head Pub in Deal and The Western Bandstand in Brighton are among those featured on Historic England's Seaside Stories map.

The map, which launched on Thursday, aims to celebrate the history of seaside communities, Historic England said.

Heritage Minister Baroness Fiona Twycross says the project will help to "preserve the history of our coastal towns and breathe new life into their future."

The map charts all of the listed buildings on England's coastline, including 56 sites in Sussex and Kent.

Other sites also on the map include Worthing Lido, Hastings Pier and Margate's Winter Gardens.

Residents in the South East are being encouraged to submit photos and other memories of the landmarks included on the list to add to the archive of material about them.

The map has been designed as part of the Missing Pieces Project, which aims to highlight overlooked stories about England's cultural landmarks.

Duncan Wilson, chief executive of Historic England, said: "Our seaside places hold a special place in our national story, yet the full richness of their heritage cannot be captured without the first-hand accounts, images and memories of those who've experienced them.

"I encourage people to contribute to the Missing Pieces Project, so we can all help ensure these treasured coastal landmarks are celebrated."