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A massive section of the centuries-old Great Wall of China has collapsed after bungling workmen in northern China dug up a city square in front of it.

Tons of bricks and rubble crashed down from the 100ft section of the ancient wall running through Zhangjiakou, in Hebei province, in the early hours of the morning.

Locals say the collapse happened after weeks of torrential rain combined with major roadworks in front of the wall's foundations.

"There is an investigation into the causes of the collapse. A number of things may have contributed, including the building work," said one city official.