A STATELY home which has become a tourist attraction is to expand with a visitor centre.

The scheme at Scampston Hall, near Malton, North Yorkshire, will boost the Ryedale district economy, councillors said.

Sir Charles and Lady Ledgard applied to build the complex next to the hall's popular walled gardens - created by Victorian landscape gardener Capability Brown - which opened to the public in recent years.

Sir Charles told Ryedale District Council's planning committee that it was essential to provide the facilities, which include a cafe and toilets.

The hall was turned into a visitor attraction in the wake of the decline in farming on its estate. Sir Charles said opening the garden five days a week will bring in income lost from agriculture.

Out of season, the visitor facilities will be used for events including cookery demonstrations and lectures.

Councillor Howard Keal said "This will be an excellent visitor attraction and bring much benefit to the local economy."