2018 will be a busy year for Whittington Castle with a host of new events planned for the season.

Since the restoration in 2007 the castle, which is the first community run castle in the country, has managed to raise the funds each year to keep the attraction open for future generations.

As a registered charity, the castle raises funds through events, weddings, Knight and Princess parties, running a tearoom, gift shop and second hand books and car parking fees.

"We are always looking for new ways to fundraise for the castle as general maintenance of the area and grounds is the Castle’s Preservation Trust priority," said castle manager Sue Ellis.

“Last year Jules and Russ Raymond-Sandy – Landlords from The Last Inn at Hengoed got married with us – it was a fantastic day and a real celebration. "They wanted to thank the castle and offered to host a fundraising event at the Last Inn this year. So we decided to host a fundraising Ceilidh as a fun event – featuring Devil’s chair Ceilidh Band”.

The event takes place on Saturday, March 10 at 7.30pm for 8pm start till 11pm.

Tickets are still available from Whittington Castle, The Last Inn, Rowanthorn or by phoning 01691 662500.

The castle needs extra volunteers to help in the tearoom, at events, weddings – if you think you could spare a few hours why not pop in to our coffee morning for a get together on Wednesday, March 14 where you can chat to other volunteers.