Community plans to save a historic Suffolk pier are making “good progress” after £45,000 of shares were sold in support of the project.

Shotley Pier Group is seeking a total of £350,000 to buy, repair and renovate the Victorian pier opposite the Bristol arms in the village.

It launched a community share scheme last year and yesterday reported that £45,000 had been sold. With the Co-op’s Power to Change Community Share Booster Programme, the total is doubled to £90,000.

The share scheme has also been extended until the end of this month, as the group is still in negotiations with the pier’s current owner.

A spokesman for the project said the total raised so far meant “we are making good progress”.

“Your support in making this exciting project a reality is very much appreciated,” the spokesman added.

Under the scheme, people are invited to buy shares at £25 each. Email here to find out more.