ONE of Colchester's oldest buildings has become the town's newest wedding venue.

Tymperleys, the timber-framed building which dates back to the 15th century, has been licensed to hold weddings.

The listed building off Trinity Street, which was once home to Queen Elizabeth I's physician William Gilberd, was bequeathed to the town along with a historic collection of clocks, by businessman and philanthropist Bernard Mason.

But Tymperleys Clock Museum was closed by Colchester Council in October 2010 as it sought to save money.

The Charrington family, which owns Layer Marney Tower, signed a £310,000 deal in 2013 to take over the building on a 125 year lease and now runs a cafe, restaurant and conference facility.

They have secured a wedding licence for the private rooms on the first floor as well one of the ground floor rooms and the garden.

Weddings have taken place at Layer Marney Towers for more than 40 years.

Sheila Charrington said: "Thousands of people have visited Tymperleys since we opened last year and there have been a great variety of things going on.

"Our experience of weddings at Layer Marney Tower tells us we are about to gather some of the happiest people you can find to Tymperleys.

A wedding open day is to be held at Tymperleys on Sunday from 10am to 5pm.

For more information go to www.tymperleys.co.uk.