SKIPTON Castle - which withstood a three-year siege during the Civil War - is expecting a new invasion.

Once again, it has joined forces with the Craven Herald to offer free entry to readers.

A voucher will appear in next week's paper, which will admit up to two adults and three children, aged between five and 17 (under-fives are admitted free at all times).

The voucher - which is worth £24.20 - will be valid for next Saturday and Sunday, March 7 and 8.

And, to coincide with the open weekend, there will also be a voucher for free parking in newly-opened Bailey car park. The cost is usually £4.

Next Thursday's Craven Herald will also carry a feature on Skipton Castle's links to the Magna Carta, which was sealed in 1215 and established the rights of individuals against the power of the monarchy.

Among those to witness the event was the castle's then owner, William de Forz.