VISITORS to Hanbury Hall, near Droitwich Spa, will find an impressive new feature in the historic grounds

Nearly 20 tons of Forest of Dean stone has been used to construct two pairs of gate piers leading into and out of the parterre.

Staff are working to reconstruct the original George London gardens.

Gate piers were featured on the original parterre on the Dougharty plan of 1732 - a map of the estate.

Each of the four piers is nearly four metres high and weighs almost five tons.

The hall's head gardener, Neil Cook, said: "We wanted the gate piers because they were such an integral part of the original garden design. We're delighted they fit so perfectly."

Construction of the piers was not easy. Each stone had to be carefully craned over the mansion's wall to get them on site.

Neil added: "They're a triumph. We hope to have funds to complete the effect with some stunning wrought iron overthrows."

The hall and gardens, off School Road, are now open.