Duke flying in for unveiling of Hopton Castle

The Duke of Gloucester will officially unveil the newly-restored Hopton Castle in Shropshire at a ceremony, it has been revealed. He will arrive at the castle, near Craven Arms, by helicopter on December 1.

The unveiling will mark the completion of £1.25 million restoration works.

During a full day in the county, the Duke will then travel by helicopter to visit the state-of-the-art William Brookes School at Much Wenlock before going on to Oswestry Leisure Centre.

At Hopton Castle, the Duke will be greeted by the Lord Lieutenant of Shropshire Algernon Heber-Percy and a delegation including High Sheriff of Shropshire Richard Burbidge and Ludlow MP Philip Dunne.

The Duke will be taken on a tour of the castle remains and shown what restoration work has taken place before unveiling a commemorative plaque during his 45-minute visit.

More than 60 guests are expected to attend the ceremony. Trustees have revealed their delight at attracting a member of the Royal family for the event.

Eileen Baker, whose husband Tom is the chairman of Hopton Castle Preservation Trust, said: "The advantage of having the Duke of Gloucester is that he is an architect and historian and will no doubt be interested in all aspects of the project.

"A number of innovative interpretation boards have been set up at the castle over the past few days explaining what restoration work has been carried out and also the history of the castle."

The castle dates back to the 11th century.