First phone box safe

THE prototype of Britain’s first red public telephone box is to receive enhanced protection in recognition of its status, the Government has announced.

The K2 kiosk in London’s West End has been upgraded from a Grade II to a Grade II* listed property, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport said.

Created in 1924 by the renowned architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, the timber prototype formed the basis for the design of future boxes across the UK.