AN impressive new feature will stun visitors to one of Worcestershire's most popular stately homes.

Twenty tons of stone from the Forest of Dean have been used to construct two pairs of gate piers leading into and out of the Parterre at Hanbury Hall, the final stage of phase two of the reconstruction of the original George London formal gardens.

Each of the four piers - which are 12 foot tall and weigh five tons - were erected as part of the hall's tercentenary celebrations.

"We wanted the gate piers because they were such an integral part of the original garden design," said head gardener Neil Cook.

Perfect fit

"We're delighted with the way they fit so perfectly into the garden space. The piers were shown on the original Parterre on the Dougharty Plan of 1732."

The construction of the piers was not easy. Each stone had to be carefully craned over the wall of the mansion.

"They are a triumph," said Neil. "We hope that in the future we'll have the funds to complete the effect with some stunning wrought-iron overthrows."

Hanbury Hall and Gardens are open Sundays to Wednesdays until October 31.