Facelift for ancient sphinxes (From Worcester News)

Facelift for ancient sphinxes

8:40pm Wednesday 20th June 2012 in News

TWO gigantic stone sphinxes that have guarded a historic Worcestershire mansion for more than two centuries are sitting pretty after a generous donation for their restoration.

The beasts sit either side of the south porch steps at Croome Court, near Pershore, after being added in the early 1800s by James Wyatt.

The restoration was carried out by workers from Cliveden Conservation, pictured, with £1,000 from North Leicestershire National Trust Centre and Association and a £567 private donation.

The sphinxes, made of a material called Coade stone, had build-ups of algae removed, bases re-pointed and previous repairs replaced.

House and visitor services manager Amy Forster said: “The sphinxes were in quite a poor state but they really stand out now and lots of people have noticed a significant difference.”