GVA Humberts Leisure has announced that Noble Group, the current owner of Brighton's historic pier, has put the attraction up for sale for the first time in more than 25 years.

Noble Group has owned the Grade II*-listed structure since 1984 and has helped transform its commercial fortunes, with 18 themed attractions and rides currently on offer at the pier.

The disposal of Brighton Pier will include the sale of the entire issued share capital of the Brighton Marine Palace and Pier Company, established by Act of Parliament in 1888.

Noble Group development director David Biesterfield said: "Since 1984, Brighton Pier has re-established itself as one of the UK's leading attractions in one of the country's most popular and forward looking city resorts.

"More than eight million visitors come to Brighton annually and its status, as London by the Sea, the resurgence of British tourism and the forthcoming Olympics represent an exciting opportunity for further increasing the number of visitors to the Pier."