Scottish Borders castle secures future

Thirlestane Castle in the Scottish Borders has secured £150,000 of funding to help secure its future.

The 16th century home was forced to close in 2012 following an outbreak of dry rot, which spread through the building.

Since then, the owners have been working on a sustainable business plan to reopen it to visitors and keep it open for generations to come.

One huge step in developing a sustainable business model was securing £150,000 from Leader, which comes from the Scottish Government and European grants.

The money, which was match funded by the Thirlestane Castle Trust will be spent on a new apartment, reopening the old kitchen and replacing the cobbles in the courtyard.

The castle will reopen to the public in May and the family hope it will stay open for generations to come.