COCKERMOUTH'S former cottage hospital, which is more than 100 years old, is being demolished this week.

The building on Isel Road, which has stood empty for four years, will be taken down to make way for a retirement development.

Plans submitted to Allerdale Council by retirement housebuilder McCarthy and Stone were given the go-ahead in June.

Following the demolition, work will start on 40 flats in the development which is due to open in 2020.