Scaffolding has gone up around a historic and iconic landmark just a few miles from Coalville.

Visitors to Bradgate Park will see the Old John Tower is wrapped in a protective blue layer.

It marks the start of "essential" repairs to the outside walls and roof of the tower, previously described as a "fragile piece of architecture". This is just the first step in a series of works proposed for the historic building.

The trust which oversees the park has said the Old John Tower is due a "restorative facelift". There will also be structural repairs and specialist stone and mortar work that will help restore the visual elegance of the original tower, built in 1784, the Bradgate Park Trust has said.

The trust has issued a plea to residents to help them fund the scheme. It says it needs to raise £30,000 for the work. The trust itself has already put up £10,000 of this money which will see the initial repairs, which started last week, carried out.

It hopes to secure the additional funds for the restoration effort by the end of November so the work can be completed by Christmas, with people able to donate through the trust's website. Money raised beyond the target amount will be spent on the conservation and maintenance of the Park, in line with the Trusts' charitable objectives, it added.

James Dymond, director of Bradgate Park Trust, said: "Old John Tower's distinct outline has long looked over the Leicestershire skyline and we're so honoured to have thousands of visitors to the park each year, just to climb the hill and see the unique Grade II-listed building with breath-taking views. The tower itself is a robust yet fragile piece of architecture and its vital we ensure the right materials are used in the right place to prevent deterioration of its historic fabric.

"Our fundraising target of £30,000 may seem ambitious, but the trust has kicked off the campaign with a starting donation of £10,000 which will meet initially identified repair costs. If we are to successfully restore Old John Tower to its periodic likeness, we need to call on our communities and businesses to help make this plan a reality.

"All pledges of support, however large or small, will be gratefully received – and contribute to extending the long life that Old John Tower already has."