A Birmingham landmark that inspired JRR Tolkien's Lord Of The Rings trilogy is all set to get a facelift.

Perrott's Folly in Waterworks Road, Edgbaston, was the inspiration behind the author's masterpiece.

The seven-storey tower is currently undergoing emergency repairs before major refurbishment work can begin but extra funding had been needed.

Now Birmingham City Council will provide £30,000 for the additional work.

The folly and nearby Severn Trent water tower are yards from where Tolkien grew up.

Once the work is completed, there are plans to cash in on the success of the Lord of the Rings film trilogy and turn the folly and water tower into a themed restaurant and visitor centre.

Coun Ken Hardeman (Con Moseley), city council cabinet member for regeneration, said: "This well-loved landmark on the city skyline close to Edgbaston reservoir inspired Tolkien's tales.

"We have arranged for an experienced team of conservation specialists to put a ring beam into the structure to tie the whole building together."