WORK is nearing completion on the latest phase of restoring grandiose Highcliffe Castle to its former glory.

The £1.25 million project begun last summer has re-opened the state dining room which had lain derelict for 40 years since the historic clifftop chateau was ravaged by fire and abandoned to the elements.

Other features and facilities installed or reinstated during the most major modifications carried out at the castle for more than a decade include provision of toilets and heating and access to areas of the Grade I listed building never previously open to the public.

The great hall has also been refurbished and the previously pot-holed gravel car park re-surfaced.

"We were delighted to be entrusted with carrying out major refurbishment work to such a prestigious and historic building," said Rob Hooker of Poole-based Greendale Construction which has carried out the work.

The additional accommodation is expected to draw more than 50,000 visitors to the castle this year and cater for the 130 weddings and 48 receptions already booked.

While the works have overrun the original Easter completion date, only the finishing touches are left to do. Mayor of Christchurch Josephine Spencer is hosting a VIP open afternoon at the castle later this month and the City of Southampton Orchestra Chamber Ensemble gives the first concert in the Great Hall on April 30.

Meanwhile, the castle has been open since February for the programme of exhibitions in the west wing library and winter garden and Bournemouth Society chose the venue for its re-launch party and inaugural lecture meeting this evening.