Public votes bring windfall for hall

The cash will be used to create a series of mown walkways in the adjoining fields allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of wildlife in their natural habitats. A picnic area will also be created.

A team of experts are set to start work shortly with the completion date expected in late autumn.

In September last year Bovril donated £100,000 to the National Trust, to help restore outdoor areas across the country. A shortlist of 75 National Trust sites across the nation and members of the public were invited to choose where the money went.

East Riddlesden is one of five sites that received a share of the cash.

Cassandra Cowie, learning and community officer at the hall, said: “Winning the money has been a fantastic victory not only for East Riddlesden Hall, but for Keighley.

“We are thrilled to have enough money to restore the property, which wouldn’t have been possible without the thousands of votes and support from the local community.

“Since the Trust acquired the property in 1934, the fields have never been open to the public, but now we have the means to change this, increasing our offer for both visitors and locals.”

People can keep up-to-date with developments at www.bovril.co.uk/revival