THE secret history of one of Colchester's most iconic landmarks will be revealed at a special celebration to mark the end of Jumbo Summer.

Firstsite gallery, in Lewis Gardens, will host the free event, which is open to all, on Sunday from 2.30pm.

One highlights will be the chance to learn about the past of the Victorian water tower during a course run by four historians including author Andrew Phillips.

Mr Phillips said: "The class of 28 people have come from a wide range of backgrounds including teachers, engineers, heritage experts, life-long residents and local history enthusiasts.

"We have assembled a wide range of knowledge, material and technical data and we can’t wait to share this with the public at the Jumbo Summer Celebration.”

The event will also see the premiere of a specially commissioned documentary and an animation created by Colchester school children.

North Essex Heritage is working with partners, including the building’s owner, Paul Flatman, towards preserving Jumbo and bringing it back into sustainable use.

Supported by Colchester Council and a £10,000 National Lottery Heritage Fund grant, Jumbo Summer, has been designed to explore the rich history of the iconic water tower.