THE world-famous 199 Whitby steps have been saved after a major fundraising campaign reached its target in only three months.

Each of the steps, which feature in Bram Stoker's classic horror story Dracula, has been sponsored for £1,000 and will now be restored.

What started off as a local campaign quickly captured the imagination of the country and then went worldwide as word spread.

Now the tourist attraction will have to be closed for the restoration work.

The steps, which link the ancient North Yorkshire harbour with 900-year-old St Mary's parish church and the ruined abbey, are used by thousands of tourists and pilgrims every year.

Generations ago many of the eroded steps were turned over to give them a new lease of life, but a more extensive restoration is now needed.

"We are now in the happy position of not only having all the steps sponsored but there is even a waiting list," said church warden John Hemson.

The names of sponsors are to be engraved on a commemorative plaque.

Step number one was funded by the Co-operative Society, and 199 by St Hilda's Priory, Whitby.

The first move towards the restoration work has now started with a survey which is likely to cost £22,000.

"Nearly all the work will have to be done by hand," said Mr Hemson. "It will be a major operation."

In Bram Stoker's book, Dracula transforms himself into a dog and runs ashore from the wrecked boat Demeter and up the steps into St Mary's churchyard.

Even today, a sign is displayed at the church entrance saying that Dracula's grave is not to be found in the churchyard contrary to the belief of many readers of the famous story.