VIEWS that were once fit for royalty are being revealed for the first time in centuries with the beginning of work to save a crumbling royal fortress.

Sheriff Hutton Castle, near York, was once a favoured home of Richard III but has not been lived in since the end of the 16th Century.

Although repairs were carried out in the 19th Century, it has otherwise been left untouched and the ravages of time have left it in a poor state.

However, repairs have now begun thanks to a grant of £450,000 from English Heritage.

The five-month scheme to tackle falling masonry at the fortress is concentrating on the formidable 100ft north-east tower, which is badly affected by weather erosion.

And already the experts have made some surprising finds, with evidence of chambers and rooms that were previously not known about.

English Heritage's regional director David Fraser said: "The structure was becoming very unsound and facing a bleak outlook, particularly after a major fall last year.

"Hopefully the repairs will ensure a rosier future for this remarkable landmark."

Originally built by Lord John Neville of Raby, the fortress was owned by Richard III, whose son is buried in the village church. It was also used by the Council of the North until the 16th Century. Since 1940 it has been in the family of Dr Richard Howarth.