A pressure group set up to protect the nation's old buildings has made a surprising plea to have one torn down.

Save Britain's Heritage say Colchester is in danger of missing a golden opportunity to bulldoze the old Central Clinic tower block on East Hill.

Developers want to turn the five-storey building into flats, but objectors claim it is a blot on the landscape and should be pulled down.

Save Britain's Heritage say it is the first time in five years they have campaigned for a building to be demolished instead of protected.

Spokesman Adam Wilkinson said it would be an "enormous missed opportunity".

Planning officers admit the clinic is "rather unloved," but say Colchester Council cannot force the developers to demolish the building.

They are recommending the plans get the go-ahead when they are discussed on Thursday.