HIGHCLIFFE Castle welcomed a group of very important visitors on Monday when officials from the National Lottery Heritage Fund made a fact-finding tour before deciding whether to make a £2.8 million grant towards further restoration of the building.

Work on repairing the council-owned grade 1 listed building was begun 10 years ago with one of the first heritage grants made by the National Lottery but a later bid for funding was turned down two years ago.

But after re-drafting its bid - a five-volume document delivered to the lottery regional office in Exeter in July - castle bosses are hopeful the latest funding bid will also be successful to allow restoration of the Penleaze wing to display the castle's collection of medival stained glass.

Castle manager David Hopkins said: "The Lottery representatives seemed genuinely impressed by the work that has been done here and can see how the commitment of the council has benefited the castle, as well as the heritage of Christchurch and the country.

"They were happy that we were able to answer all the questions they had about our bid and that we are in a good position to now put in writing the further information they require before making their decision.

"The visit went very well and, though we remain very optimistic and hopeful of a positive outcome, we are aware that there is stiff competition for the lottery funds.

"Applications for this round of grants total twice the funds available. We believe our bid is an excellent one, so it's just matter of keeping our fingers crossed!"

The decision on the bid will be announced in December and if successful, the lottery funding will provide for further repairs inside the castle, an education suite, new galleries and facilities such as heating and toilets.

It will also pay for the conservation and display of the unique collection of stained glass, some of which dates from the 12th century.