THE iconic lighthouse on Burnham-On-Sea beach will undergo a major restoration this summer.

The much-loved landmark has been looking increasingly weathered, with rust in places and peeling paint.

Sedgemoor District Council (SDC) has awarded a major £20,000 contract to a firm to give the lighthouse a makeover.

A SDC spokesman said: "The lighthouse needs a thorough re-paint every seven years or so because it is in a marine environment and exposed to salty air, spray and windy conditions. 

“It’s important to keep it looking at its best for residents and visitors as the lighthouse is an iconic photographic image, especially set against the dramatic sun-sets, courtesy of the quality of light for which Burnham on Sea is well-known."

The building, originally built in 1832, will undergo the revamp throughout the summer, and is expected to be finished by the end of September.

The exterior was last decorated in 2010, and will be benefiting from another lick of paint this time, following its traditional red stripe design.

There will also be timber cladding and supports added to strengthen the structure, so it can continue to be a focal point of the seafront for many years to come.