WORK on a major historical regeneration scheme has taken a step nearer to starting after a £2million grant was officially approved.

The National Lottery Heritage grant is a major boost for Ribble Valley Council, which needs need £3.2million for the Clitheroe Castle Heritage Scheme.

Council chiefs now hope to raise the remaining £400,000 so that work can begin on the new facility that will include an education suite, exhibition space, interactive displays, a cafe and shops and disabled access.

The High Sheriff of Lancashire, Peter Robinson, who has championed the scheme, said: "This is absolutely fantastic news and the culmination of a lot of hard work by many dedicated people behind the scenes for several years.

"We are now on course to producing the one of the finest heritage sites in the North West."

Robert Thompson, chairman of Ribble ValleyCouncil's community committee, said it will boost tourism, create jobs and revitalise the area economically and culturally.

He added: "Council officers have fought long and hard to bring this scheme to fruition and are to be congratulated for their fantastic efforts."

The Heritage Lottery Fund's Deputy Director of Operations, Stephen Boyce, said: "Towns and communities change over time, but landmarks like Clitheroe Castle are a visual reminder of our shared heritage and represent a thread of continuity through the ages."

When completed, it is hoped the castle will have the capacity to attract 17,000 visitors a year.