SUPPORTERS of Derby's former Hippodrome Theatre are applying pressure on the city council to force the owner of grade II-listed buildings to protect it against the winter.

Derby Hippodrome Restoration Fund, campaigning to get the building restored to its former glory, said it is concerned severe weather will harm the historic building.

Chairman Joan Travis said: "Since the building was exposed to the elements in March 2008, caused by work carried out under the ownership of Christopher Anthony, we believe that neither the owner nor the city council has attempted to rectify the situation. Patience is running out for all the supporters who wish to see the Hippodrome restored."

The council did issue an enforcement notice which it could have used to force Mr Anthony to repair the building but later withdrew it to allow Mr Anthony to raise money to put together a planning application, due to be formally submitted in a couple of weeks.

It has asked Mr Anthony to carry out work to secure the building since then and is still corresponding with him.

In addition the authority is taking legal action against Mr Anthony and his contractor after parts of the building, which was built in 1914, were demolished during repair work carried out in March last year.

A planning application by the owner to turn the site into a multi-storey car park with office space is pending.