A 'SPECTACULAR' display of more than 4,000 model soldiers to mark the bicentenary of the Battle of Waterloo is on display at Highcliffe Castle.

The historic venue, which would have been a very different building had it not been for Napoleon's defeat two hundred years ago, is hosting the diorama created by local historian, Martin Axton.

Lord Stuart de Rothesay created Highcliffe Castle in the 1830s, using ancient stonework from demolished buildings in Normandy, collected during his time as British Ambassador in Paris.

He was the Duke of Wellington’s ‘right hand man’ during the Peninsular War and was with Wellington in Brussels shortly before the Battle of Waterloo in June 1815.

Kelly Mitchell, Highcliffe Castle activity and learning officer, said: “The diorama is a spectacular display and we are grateful to Martin Axton for kindly loaning this extensive collection.

"Martin will also be sharing his expertise on the Napoleonic Wars with our visitors, every Sunday in the Library Gallery at 3pm.

“The Duchess of Richmond’s Ball, which took place in Brussels on 15th June 1815, has particular significance for us at Highcliffe Castle.

"Sir Charles Stuart, as British Ambassador, lent his liveried servants and silver plate to the Duchess for her ball, which was attended by the Duke of Wellington.

"It gave Wellington a crucial opportunity to give last-minute orders to his senior officers before the battle."

Stephen Petty, a Fellow of the International Napoleonic Society and Member of the Waterloo Association, will be giving a series of eight illustrated talks throughout the summer at Highcliffe Castle.

On Waterloo Day itself, Thursday, Martin Axton will explain the key stages of the battle at 1pm, followed by a presentation on ‘The Captive Eagles: Wellington’s Cavalry at Waterloo’ by Stephen Petty at 2pm.

Tickets for the talks are £4 each, including refreshments, and usual admission charges also apply.

To book contact 01425 278807.

The diorama and presentations will run until September 13.