CAMPAIGNERS have called for one final push to support the online 'Save Swanage Pier' fundraiser.

The crowdfunder campaign, launched by Swanage Pier Trust, comes to an end on July 21, and is currently more than £12,000 under target.

Pier supporters need to raise £900,000 in match-funding before November 2016, and the trust had set a separate £18,000 target for its online initiative.

The £900,000 will enable the trust to release a provisional grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund to regenerate the historic Grade II-listed pier.

Forty one of the Victorian structure's timber piles are in a critical condition and need replacement, the trust says.

The trust is almost halfway towards its match-funding target.

Swanage Pier Trust chief executive Ben Adeney said: "We would encourage anyone who has been considering supporting the appeal to visit the crowdfunder website to make a pledge within the next few days."

Improvements to the pier site, including the creation of a new visitor's centre with exhibition and education space, improved disabled access, and new café and retail areas, are also part of the regeneration project.

Ben added: "This really is our one opportunity to Save Swanage Pier for future generations and we only have a short timeframe to secure the funds we need.

"The pier is an integral part of Swanage’s character and a critical part of its heritage, which plays an important role in the town’s appeal as a tourist destination.

"Once the regeneration project is complete, the new facilities and activities at the pier will ensure it generates enough income to undertake on an ongoing programme, so this really is the time that we can make a significant difference."

The crowdfunding campaign has been running for five weeks since June 14.

Visit crowdfunder.co.uk/save-swanage-pier and you can donate as little as £10.

Pledges receive rewards including unlimited strolling passes, watercolour illustrations and personalised brass plaques.