Calls are mounting for stunning string lights illuminating Margate's seafront to remain permanently once filming of a Hollywood movie has finished.

The decorative bulbs, which stretch for more than half-a-mile along the shoreline, have been put up by crews shooting Empire of Light.

Written and directed by Sam Mendes - the Oscar-winner behind blockbusters including 1917, American Beauty, and Bond films Skyfall and Spectre - the film is believed to be a love story set in and around a cinema during the 1980s.

Parts of Margate have been transformed, including the Dreamland building into a stylish retro cinema named the Empire, while the seafront has been illuminated by spectacular lights hanging between Nayland Rock and the Turner Contemporary.

Cllr Rob Yates, Labour councillor for Margate Central ward, is now pushing for officials at Kent County Council and Thanet District Council to agree for them to stay.

"The seafront lights have awoken Margate's spirit, the feeling of a beautiful and well-loved seaside resort that is in need of some love and TLC," he said.

"There is overwhelming support for keeping them with residents, businesses and political parties of all colours; it is clear that the lights must stay.

"I've spoken to the film company, who are now working on a formal proposal to hand over the dimmable lights.

"The supervising location manager has said they hope to know by March 18 if they can.

"I imagine there will be public anger if such an expensive film set is not willing to support the town in this small gesture after so much discussion."

Cllr Yates says the strongest argument for keeping the lights isn't about their appearance, or the nostalgia they evoke, but about safety.

"Residents have approached me recently telling me how it makes them feel safer walking home at night," he said.

"I mentioned this to a local PCSO who told me that in conversation their colleagues agreed it would be beneficial."

He adds: "The message is clear, the lights must stay.

"It's going to take some time to work out the details with timers, correct brightness, ownership and maintenance, but this isn't rocket science.

"I implore local government officers to understand the strength of feeling on this issue and support any transfer. It's more than just lights, it's about hope."

A Thanet District Council spokesman said: "The council has currently not received a formal offer from the film production company for the decorative lighting to remain."

Kent County Council has been asked for a response.

Filming of Empire of Light started last week, with the seafront turned into a winter wonderland with fake snow. It is expected to continue until May 21.

The star-studded cast includes Olivia Colman and Colin Firth.