A HERITAGE attraction is due to reopen soon after it was suddenly closed by the National Trust.

Dismay followed the closure of Dalton Castle, a 14th Century tower in the town, after a 'sudden and unexpected' change in policy by the National Trust, which owns the building.

But the building is due to reopen to visitors soon, according an update shared by the Furness MP Simon Fell.

The National Trust said: “In recent months we have been working with the Friends of Dalton Castle to transition the running of the castle to them but in a new capacity as formal National Trust volunteers.

"This creates a clear distinction between the role of the Friends supporter group and the role of National Trust volunteers, with the latter being responsible for the castle's opening and visitor offer.

“Initially we had planned to keep the castle open whilst this transition took place, but a temporary period of closure is required to carry out training, support, and ultimately set the group up for success.

“We appreciate and value the support of the Friends of Dalton Castle group; they are supporting us to reopen the castle and we look forward to continuing to work with them on this joint goal.”

The body previously said the closure was 'necessary to ensure the continued safety of Dalton Castle's users and visitors'.

The volunteer group expressed their frustration when the castle closed, saying: "The Friends of Dalton Castle, who have been responsible for keeping Dalton Castle open for the past 30 years, are working hard to try and ensure that it is reopened as soon as possible, and we will endeavour to keep [everyone] informed regarding our progress with the National Trust.

"On behalf of the Friends of Dalton Castle, the committee would like to apologise to anyone who was planning to visit in the coming weeks, but we hope to welcome [people] back to your castle as soon as possible."

The landmark was formerly the manorial courthouse of Furness Abbey.

Following the dissolution of the abbey in 1537, the castle continued as a courthouse for more than 300 years, owned at first by the Crown and then by the Dukes of Albermarle, the Dukes of Montagu, and finally the Dukes of Buccleuch.

It was given to the National Trust by the 8th Duke of Buccleuch in 1965.