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A Northumberland stately home, described as one of the finest in England, has reopened to the public after being saved for the nation.The National Trust campaigned to save the 18th Century Seaton Delaval Hall when it was put up for sale in 2008.
More than £3m was raised from the public in the 18-month campaign.
The hall, near the coastal town of Seaton Sluice, was built between 1718 and 1731 by Sir John Vanbrugh, the architect of Blenheim Palace.
A National Trust spokesman said: "It was a huge effort by all sorts of people who gave us tremendous support.
"All the local organisations like history societies and women's institutes wanted to do something for us."
The Grade I-listed hall includes impressive gardens and 400 acres of surrounding land.
More than 30,000 people from as far as Canada, Egypt, Japan and New Zealand donated money to save the house.
It is widely regarded to be the finest work of the English Baroque period and one of the most important historical houses in England.
A host of famous names supported the campaign to save the hall, including former Newcastle United legend Malcolm Macdonald, along with the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall.This article is from the BBC News website. ? British Broadcasting Corporation, The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites.