THIS is the video which council bosses hope will attract thousands of tourists to Colchester.

The short film, which will be sent to Sky TV boxes in living rooms across the country during the summer, focuses on the town's history and finishes by encouraging people to stay in the town for a weekend.

Named 'If Colchester’s Walls Could Talk What Would They Say?' the video pans across the borough, taking in Colchester Castle, Castle Park, St Botolphs Priory, Firstsite, The Minories, The Three Wise Monkeys, Mersea Island, The Company Shed and The Church Street Tavern.

In a synopsis of the film, council bosses state: "With rambling streets and stunning countryside, Colchester is home to a 900 year old Norman Castle, the oldest and longest Roman wall in Britain, the first Augustinian priory established in England and the only known Roman Chariot Racing arena in the UK.

"If that's not enough history why not immerse yourself in Celtic uprising and discover the story of Queen of the Iceni; Queen Boudica.

"With a treasure box of independent shops and big-name stores plus the iconic Firstsite building housing a modern art gallery and cultural centre, the town centre is a great place to start exploring Colchester’s many wonders.

"Head further afield in the beautiful Borough of Colchester to visit Dedham, one of Essex's most attractive villages sitting right in the heart of Constable country, or follow the river Colne out to the coast and cross the ancient Strood (only at low tide!) to Mersea Island where you can sample our famous Colchester Native Oysters."

The making and the broadcasting of the advert cost Colchester taxpayers about £40,000.

The actual advert which will be shown to Sky viewers will be a 30-second condensed version of this film.

Critics have attacked the move, citing cheaper and "more effective" use of social media as a potential alternative.