WORK to restore iron railings around Sir William Turner's almhouses has received £20,000 from the Wolfson Foundation of London.

Trustees of the almshouses, at Kirkleatham, near Redcar, have been fund-raising since last August to make repairs to the Grade 1 Listed building.

"Many of the important architectural features of the building have deteriorated beyond what can be fixed by routine maintenance, " said Peter Sotheran, chairman.

The money goes towards the £25,000 needed to repair the 19th century gates and railings at the main entrance.

The seven tonnes of railings were in danger of imminent collapse.

"This week, the almshouses celebrate their 335th anniversary. The timing of the award is the best birthday present we could have, " added Mr Sotheran.

Choral evensong to celebrate Founders' Day takes place in the chapel at the almshouses on Friday, at 7pm.

The chapel will be open to visitors from 6.30pm.