THE oldest water-balanced lift in the country re-opened for business on Good Friday with ambitions of smashing last year's passenger record.

The Victorian cliff lift at Saltburn attracted more than 100,000 visitors last year.

In its heyday in 1954, it carried more than a quarter of a million passengers.

The lift opened on June 24, 1884, and is the oldest water-balanced lift in the British Isles.

It is one of just three remaining lifts of its kind across the country.

The two carriages can carry 12 passengers on their 90-second journeys up and down the 207-foot stretch of track which is powered by two huge water tanks - one holding 30,000 gallons of water and the other one containing 18,500 gallons.

Peter Lane, Assistant Director of Leisure and Community Services with Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, said: "The pier and the cliff lift are synonymous with Saltburn and we're delighted both are looking splendid for the start of the holiday season.

"The cliff lift did terrific business last year - maybe not as good as in its heyday back in the 1950s - but it's a great attraction. And long may it continue."

Daily opening times are 10am until 5pm until Whit Sunday, May 19, then 10am until 7pm until September 15, with a 30-minute lunch break between 1pm and 1.30pm.

Admission charges are 50p for adults, while children under five are free.

It is also free for Redcar and Cleveland pensioners and there is a 30p concessionnary charge for senior citizens from outside the area.