CASTLE Drogo, located between Drewsteignton and Chagford, has been chosen as one of the beneficiaries of a major grant from Historic England. The National Trust property – the last castle to be built in England – will receive £442,000 from a £50 million capital funding pot allocated by the Government to Historic England to distribute through the Heritage Stimulus fund.

The aim of the fund is to restart vital construction and maintenance on heritage sites to preserve visitor attractions, providing immediate work for some of the most vulnerable heritage specialists and contractors in the sector. It is part of a wider £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund.

Central Devon MP Mel Stride, who visited Castle Drogo on the day the announcement was made, said: “I am delighted that the Government is protecting important cultural, arts and heritage institutions through a world-leading £1.57 billion rescue package. Castle Drogo is both an important piece of Devon history and a valued tourist attraction that brings visitors and revenue to the area. It is a worthy recipient of the Historic England grant.”

Cllr James McInnes, who represents Hatherleigh and Chagford Division at Devon County Council added: “This is an important grant for Castle Drogo and very welcome.”