A RAINBOW of blossoming buds planted at the gateway to East Oxford will bedazzle passers-by this spring.

Magdalen College School has teamed up Oxford Preservation Trust to add a bit of seasonal sparkle to troughs at the iconic Victoria Fountain.

The 19th century octagonal stone structure, which stands at The Plain roundabout, now boasts colourful flower beds planted in time for the warmer weather.

Magdalen College School master Tim Hands said: "We are pleased to be partnering with Oxford Preservation Trust in this way and to be playing our part in the preservation of one of the many historic monuments that we are fortunate enough to have on our doorstep."

The Cowley Place school will maintain the nearby troughs, with a helping hand from the trust, after Oxford City Council gave both the go-ahead.

Students have pledged to step up and take responsibility for giving the flower beds a bit of love and care throughout the year.

Preservation trust director Debbie Dance said: "Planting up the troughs is the last piece of the jigsaw bringing this local landmark building back to life. It is great to work together with Magdalen College School in this way and continue to add that extra something to Oxford for everyone to enjoy."

The landmark was built as a drinking fountain in the late 19th century to commemorate Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee.

Oxford Preservation Trust carried out a restoration programme in 2009, which saw the Victoria Fountain's timber clock cupola returned to its former glory, and a plaque installed detailing its history.