ASK any of the residents who live, work or drink near to the former St John's Cinema and, we'd wager, they'll tell you it was only a matter of time before some kind of calamity struck the derelict building.

Though Saturday's fire might have had more tragic consequences, that doesn't detract from the fact that it's long been the source of great anxiety, a magnet for down-and-outs, drug-users and those of a general anti-social bent.

It's also an eyesore, for some a reminder of better days in the self-styled Village in the City, for others a frustrating indictment of the neglect that parts of Worcester have suffered.

It's understandable that there should be calls for demolition, but we're not sure that's the answer - you'd have to replace it with something.

What's more, there are other ways to remove the problem.

Whatever the solution, it's going to require bold, imaginative thinking and money.

But, then, look around on your next walk through the streets, and you'll see it's just one of a number of buildings in need of decisive action.

Count the number of potential little gems in our midst, not the greatest architect jewels, but the ones that have already given great service to the life of the city and could do again.

Look beyond the dereliction and you'll see lines, proportion and detail that, with imagination and loving care, can grace the city again.

This isn't just a question of heritage, a whimsy based on nostalgia. It's about reclaiming parts of the city that have fallen into disrepair and disrepute for the good of the people and their community.