A CELEBRATION will mark the end of restoration work at St Ann's Well.

The well blessing takes place at noon on Friday, December 9, at the historic site on the hills above Great Malvern.

The well is the first of 14 sites being restored with £290,000 of Heritage Lottery money.

Malvern Hills Conservator Ray Roberts said: "We'd felt for a while that the springs had been neglected, especially as they are what Malvern is known for worldwide. The aim is not just to restore them to how they looked many years ago, but also to make them look attractive and cared for."

St Ann's Well is being returned to its 19th Century appearance, when it was popular with people taking the water cure. This has included restoring water cascades, repairing stone work, rebuilding springs and restoring seating.

Rose Garrard, vice-chairman of Malvern Spa Association, said: "Malvern is naturally blessed with more springs than any town I know and I hope the restorations will allow people to share in this wonderful environment."

The Rev. John Barr will conduct the well blessing, which will feature harp music and a musical rendition of a 17th Century poem praising Malvern water.

Next will be the restoration of springs at North Malvern Clock Tower and The Holywell, in Malvern Wells.