Bristol's Cabot Tower is poised to reopen its doors to the public this summer, after English Heritage provided funding towards much-needed repair work at the Grade II-listed building.

The public viewing tower was built between 1896-1898 to celebrate the 400th anniversary of John Cabot's voyage from the city to America in 1497.

Bristol City Council (BCC) estimated that £420,000 worth of repair and restoration work is needed to bring the tower back into use, with English Heritage contributing £200,000.

Simon Cartlidge Architects and Nimbus Conservation will work on the scheme with a view to reopening the attraction this summer, although BCC said no fixed date had been set.

Andrew Vines, regional director for English Heritage South West, said: "This restoration work is the start of a new lease of life for this iconic building."

Image: Photograph taken by Rob Brewer