THE historic Besford Court, near Pershore, which dates back to the 10th Century, has taken on a new lease of life.

Prowting Homes have converted the interesting Grade II* listed building into eight luxury two and three-storey apartments.

Built around a central courtyard, the west wing is a traditional black and white timbered building, and the north, south and east wings are constructed from honey-coloured stone.

All eight apartments contained within The Court are highly individual and of grand proportions. Many of the features have been carefully retained, such as the white cascade stone staircase built in the early 20th century, which increases in width as it descends, imitating the colours of a waterfall.

Great stone fireplaces can be found in the hallways and apartments, and leaded windows are featured throughout the building, including unusual round windows encircled with carvings in the quadrangle.

Tucked away in the heart of the countryside, Besford Court was adapted by the Catholic Church for educational purposes nearly a century ago. The school closed in 1996 and the property was vacant until Prowting Homes bought the estate in 1999.

The development of homes on the estate has been most carefully thought out, and the resulting combination of new properties and carefully restored listed buildings makes an attractive blend. The whole 35 acres has only 57 homes.

Prices for properties start at £325,000 for a three bedroom, two-storey residence to £699,000 for a four bedroom, three storey residence.

Linda Androlia, of Prowting Homes, said: "We have been working on these properties for the best part of 18 months and from conception to completion have invested a great deal to provide the highest quality possible."

Adrian Dyer, of agents FPDSavills, added: "The space and volume is some of the residences in truly impressive."