Nelson's Column cleans up its act

The statue of Nelson stands on a 185ft column

Preparations to restore London's iconic Nelson's Column to its former glory are taking place.

Hoarding has been put up around the base of the Grade I listed structure in Trafalgar Square, ready for the work which starts next month.

It will involve cleaning the stone and corroded areas, protecting the bronze with wax, removing bird droppings and "pigeon-proofing" some areas.

Work on the 185ft column and statue is due to be completed in July 2006.

London Mayor Ken Livingstone said: "Nelson's Column is an iconic landmark that is recognised around the world.

"This work is being done to ensure that the unique monument is maintained and preserved for generations to come."

The statue of Nelson has been cleaned several times but the whole monument has only undergone restoration twice, one in 1968 and in 1986.

Nelson's Column is normally inspected every two years to assess the condition of the sculpture, the granite column and the bronze.