STAFF at Hanbury Hall are celebrating after more than 4,000 people visited the historic building within the first three weeks of opening.

The sight of so many tourists has been welcomed as the hall opened nearly a month late last year due to the outbreak of foot and mouth.

This year Hanbury Hall opened to the public on March 24 and both the hall and gardens have proved popular following major improvements.

One new attraction, which will be officially opened in May and which looks set to bring in the crowds, is the playable bowling green. The new green is the first one owned by the National Trust.

The hall's property manager, Stewart Alcock, said: "We have been absolutely delighted with the number of visitors we have had in such a short amount of time. I think obviously the gorgeous weather we have experienced over the past few weeks has been a contributing factor, but also I think, people are now more aware of Hanbury Hall and what it has to offer."

The hall is open to the public from Sunday to Wednesday. For more information about opening times and admission prices ring 01684 855363.