Graffiti vandals have struck at Dreamland as a £1.8 million restoration project takes place.

They have painted Welcome to Margate on one side of the amusement park's iconic Art Deco tower, and sprayed huge letters on the other side.

Leader of Thanet District Council Cllr Chris Wells said: "The council can confirm that last night an individual, or group, illegally gained access to the Dreamland cinema complex and carried out an act of vandalism on the Grade II* listed building.

"Council officers and members of staff from the contractors Coombs are on site assessing the extent of the damage.

"At the time of the incident the site was secured and the vandals gained access by damaging the perimeter fencing.

"The council is deeply disappointed that such an iconic local landmark has been damaged in this way and will be working closely with the police to try and identify those individuals who are responsible."

The building is clad in scaffolding as work continues on the £1.8 million second phase of Dreamland's restoration project.

The former Sunshine Cafe renovation includes repairs to the original building, replacing windows and restoration of the fascia, along with a new lift and neon lighting.

The scheme will turn the building into a seafront restaurant.