WHEN National Trust properties close for the winter, the work continues behind closed doors as visitors will find out this week.

Visitors to Croome Park, near Pershore will be able to see just how much has been achieved when the park reopens on Friday.

Over the winter months, 1,000 oak and lime trees have been planted in the park, and thanks to a hi-tech Global Positioning System, the trees have been planted in the exact positions that are shown on 18th Century surveys.

Further work includes the reinstatement of paths, an 18th Century carriage drive, and the planting of exotic shrubs and trees.

Restore

Property manager Michael Smith said winter restoration work formed part of the National Trust's 10-year plan to restore Croome Landscape Park to its 18th Century appearance, rescuing "Capability" Brown's first commissioned landscape park.

"The What's New Walk on Saturday, March 5 will be a great opportunity for visitors to join me on a guided walk and learn about the significance of all of the work that we have been doing," he added.

The park will be open Wednesday to Sunday from March 4 to October 31, from 10am to 5.30pm and on Bank Holiday Mondays.

Entry costs £3.70 for adults, £1.80 for children and is free for National Trust members.

For information call 01905 371006.