THIS run-down obelisk is one of Worcester's historic structures due to be expertly restored.

Hidden inside the walls of the St Oswald's Hospital in The Tything, Worcester, not much is known about the 18th century monument.

In its current state, cordoned off from the public, it has been deemed unsafe.

But, thanks to a grant from Worcester City Council it will soon be given a new lease of life.

The chaplain of St Oswald's, Robin Johnson, said very little is known about the obelisk. While there is speculation that it once stood in Sansome Walk, one of a pair, there is no evidence to back that up.

He said: "I think we can assume that it has always been where it is now. I don't see why it would have been moved here."

Work on the obelisk is due to start, and although the grounds of St Oswald's are not open to the public, anyone with an interest can get in touch with Mr Johnson via the Worcester Diocese.

The aim of the council's historic buildings grant scheme is to make sure repair work on historic buildings is carried out correctly and with traditional materials.

So far, work has been carried out on St Mary's Court in Sansome Walk, as well as private homes in Hamilton Road, off Wyld's Lane, and Albany Road in Rainbow Hill.