THE FAMOUS Llandudno Pier came narrowly close to being named the best pier in the UK.

The pier came second in the annual UK Pier of the Year awards, which was won by Cromer Pier with Swannage Pier coming in third.

The awards are run by the National Piers Society, whose chairman Tim Wardley said of the winners: "I was delighted to discover Cromer are once again very worthy winners, with the wonderful piers of Llandudno and Swanage running a very close second and third.

"Our members are certainly a knowledgeable group of people which makes the award so special each year, voted for by the largest membership of pier experts and enthusiasts in the world."

The Grade II listed Llandudno Pier, owned and operated by Tir Prince Leisure Group, is the longest in Wales (at around 700 metres) and was first opened in 1877.

With arcades, cafes, shops and the Grand Hotel, the pier offers something for everyone, as well as stunning views of the Irish Sea and Llandudno.

A spokesperson for the Llandudno Pier said: "It is with great pride and privilege to announce that we came a close second in the annual UK Pier of the Year awards for 2024.

"Thank you for everyone's continued support and a special mention must be made to all my team who put in the hard work day in day out to make the Pier what it is."