UP-for-sale Witley Court has been handed a swift return on a £700,000-plus investment with visitor numbers rocketing by 87 per cent.

The ruined 19th century stately home welcomed 53,220 visitors between April and August this year, an increase of 24,760 on the same period in 2002.

This means the number of people turning up in that six month period has already shot past last year's final total of 41,000 visitors.

A major refurbishment programme carried out on the Italianate mansion's fountain and gardens has been thanked for the tourist boom.

The spectacular Perseus and Andromeda fountain - described as sounding like an "on-coming steam train" when first fired in the 1860s - sprang into life in April for the first time in nearly 70 years as part of the £727,500 revamp.

It has dozens of jets hidden among giant shells, sea nymphs, dolphins and a monstrous serpent - and the main jet reaches up to 90 feet.

The Heritage Lottery Fund grant has also paid for the restoration of the gardens, including the "lost" south parterre beds and paths. Work is ongoing.

English Heritage's Phil Hackett said: "We are delighted by the significant increase in visitors to Witley Court so far this year and we will be working hard to continue to attract visitors through the autumn and winter months.

"In their heyday, the gardens and fountain were a sight to behold, historically one of the most important gardens in England.

"By restoring the monumental fountain and gardens we offer visitors the chance to enjoy the site in its former glory."

Open air plays have been performed at Witley Court, which has also hosted re-enactment groups and a children's festival.

The freehold has been put up for sale, but regardless of ownership English Heritage will retain responsibility for its maintenance and management.

First recorded as the residence of the Sheriff of Worcester in 1086, Witley Court reached its peak in the mid 1800s under the First Earl of Dudley, becoming one of the most fashionable residencies in England.