VISITOR numbers to Turton Tower have held up, despite a regional slump.

The public season at the historic landmark finished at the end of October, although there are events over the winter including private bookings and the Friends of Turton Tower carols evening.

Schools will also pay regular visits.

A report to councillors said around 20,000 people would be expected over this period, in line with previous years.

Across the North West, historic houses are reporting a drop in visitor numbers, with some down by as much as 25 per cent.

Ownership of Turton Tower has now been transferred to Blackburn with Darwen Council, from North Turton Parish Council.

The borough council is looking to find ways of making the Grade One-listed landmark break even.

Ideas include renting out some parts of the site.

A sub-committee is to oversee its management.