A HIGH wall has been erected around one of Kidderminster's oldest buildings to try to deter vandals, drunken club-goers and amorous couples.
The historic tower of Caldwall Castle, which has been lovingly restored by owner Richard Davies, has been regularly targeted since work began on the property seven years ago.
Now Mr Davies - who holds the ancient title of Lord of the Manor of Caldwall - is getting the finishing touches put to a new 7ft high wall designed to keep out trespassers.
It will be ready in time for the next open day at the tower in Castle Road on Saturday, from 10am until 4pm.
History buffs will then get a rare opportunity to look inside the historic building, predated in the town only by St Mary's Church.
"We have had to put up with mindless vandalism, people urinating, people making love in the grounds, thefts and people causing damage inside the grounds since taking over the building," said Mr Davies.
"We hope the erection of a high wall will deter people from getting in."
The tower - the only surviving part of the 1347 medieval moated castle of Caldwall - only opens to the public three or four times a year.
Visitors can view the building's vaulted undercroft - the only one of its kind in Britain - and three principal rooms including The Solar Room, adorned with replica shields showing the coats of arms of previous inhabitants.
Among them were friends of Henry V, the Civil War Royalist Robert Clare and members of the Wyntour family, notoriously involved in the Gunpowder Plot.
The Grade II listed building was purchased by Mr Davies, who backs the charity Save Britain's Heritage, seven years ago, when it was sliding into neglect and disrepair. It has since undergone a dramatic restoration.
Mr Davies is now trying to track down an original copy of an ancient map of Kidderminster which features Caldwall Castle, dating back to the 1760s. A copy of the map is kept in Kidderminster Library, but Mr Davies is desperately keen to find an original to display inside the tower.
"I am sure someone owns an original version which they might be willing to sell on. I am also keen to view any other artefacts or maps which feature the castle."
Anyone who can help should ring 01905 616321.
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