CAMPAIGNERS are calling for a historic Martello Tower to be restored to its former glory.

The Grade II listed Tower E, in Hastings Avenue, Clacton, was part of a chain of 29 towers built between 1808 and 1812 to protect the coast from invasion during the Napoleonic Wars.

The fort, which is owned by Tendring Council, was fenced off on health and safety grounds two years ago due to crumbling render.

History buff Dave Bye and former councillor Danny Mayzes have now launched a petition calling on Tendring Council to restore the building, which is listed on English Heritage’s heritage at risk register.

They hope the tower, which is next to the popular Martello Bay beach, could be used as a museum. 

Nigel Brown, Tendring Council’s communications manager, said: “We are currently talking to an architect about a sustainable future use for the Martello Tower, which will bring it back to its former glory.”

For the full story see Thursday's Clacton Gazette