THE Roman circus must be saved, if Colchester is to be recognised as an international heritage site, according to the town’s MP.

Bob Russell said plans to get the town on the United Nations list of important cultural and natural heritage areas would largely depend on saving the archeological find.

The Gazette is backing the campaign to save the Roman circus, which has 35 days to find the remaining £105,000 to buy the site from developers.

Mr Russell said: “Without some serious efforts in Colchester to promote the Roman circus, then we do not stand a prayer.

“Our only hope is for the circus to be turned into a meaningful attraction.”

Meetings have been held between the MP and those responsible for getting the town on to the list.

Receiving accreditation from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation is a lengthy process.

Mr Russell said: “We are talking here of a time scheme of years, not months.”

As well as the Roman circus, Colchester has numerous other examples of the ancient civilisation.

These include the Balkerne Gate, the most complete Roman gateway in Britain, examples of Roman walls in Priory Street and the remains of a Roman theatre in Maidenburgh Street.

Sites from the UK already on the list include Stonehenge and the Tower of London.