Visitors to Constable country will soon get a fresh view of Dedham Vale.

A crane has lifted into place a new viewing platform on Dedham Church tower to give people one of the best views in Essex.

The Friends of Dedham Church was launched in May 2004 to raise the funds for opening up the tower, and looking after the fabric of the building.

It has raised £71,000 to restore and open up the inside of the tower, including restoring the 132 steps, installing lighting and finishing it off with a viewing platform.

From the tower, most of Dedham Vale can be seen - stretching from Stoke-by-Nayland in the west to the docks of Felixstowe in the east.

Parish vicar the Rev Gerard Moate said: "The Friends were formed three years ago and had a vision to make the tower accessible to the community."

Last year, people from 77 countries visited the church, the Rev Moate added: "Constable's name has travelled everywhere, the paintings are appreciated and people want to see Dedham for themselves."

The platform is due to be officially opened in mid-August once guides have been trained and various health and safety measures have been completed.

Money raised from the tours will go towards the church fabric fund.