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 – worth £24.90 – will be valid for March 5 and 6.

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

Next Thursday’s Craven Herald will also carry a feature on the remarkable stage career of the redoubtable Lady Anne Clifford, who, after the Civil War, restored Skipton Castle to its former glory.

So be sure to order your copy today!