FIRE-RAVAGED Cornhill, Wellington, could remain derelict for two years or more, town councillors have been told.

Historic buildings that used to be home to award-winning fish shop Don Jones fishmongers, and the Cornhill Tearoom, could be torn down.

A pessimistic Cllr Andrew Govier told a meeting of the town council: "It's anyone's guess whether anyone will want to rebuild those properties."

He added: "I don't think they will be rebuilt as quickly as local businesses would wish.

"It could be two years before anything happens."

See this week's WWN for more.