Saltburn'S Victorian cliff lift has high hopes for the new season.

As it re-opens to the public today, the lift hopes to beat last year's best passenger figures for more than 30 years.

The lift attracted more than 100,000 visitors for the period covering spring and summer seasons as well as weekends into October.

At the height of its popularity, the lift's best-ever year was in 1954 when more than 250,000 people used it.

Redcar and Cleveland Council's assistant leisure director, Peter Lane, said: "Saltburn's pier and cliff lift are synonymous with the town and we are delighted both are looking splendid for the start of the holiday season.

"The cliff lift did terrific business last year, maybe not as good as in its heyday back in the Fifties, but it is a great attraction. Long may it continue," he added.

The lift, which opened on June 28, 1884, is the oldest water-balanced lift in the British Isles and one of only three remaining nationwide.

The carriages can carry 12 passengers on their 90-second journeys up and down the 207-ft stretch of track, powered by two huge water tanks, the main one holding 30,000 gallons and the second containing 18,500 gallons.

Engineer Ken Fellows is preparing for his 17th year in charge of the operation.

Daily opening times are 10am-5pm until May 19, then 10am-7pm until September 15, with a 30-minute lunch break from 1pm-1.30.

Admission charges are 50p for adults, with children under five free.

It is also free for Redcar and Cleveland pensioners, with 30p concessions for other pensioners