HISTORIC England has apologised for its failure to take steps to remove a Herefordshire country house from its annual 'at risk' register after extensive works were carried out.

Newcourt Manor, in Lugwardine, is a stunning Gothic-style country house, remodelled in the early 19th century by celebrated British architect H H Seward but with much earlier origins.

The house, tucked away near the river Lugg on the outskirts of the village, is approached via a long drive through beautiful farmland

Inside, the house holds a treasure trove of period features, including a stunning coved Rococco plaster ceiling dating from around 1750 in the main entrance hall.

Upstairs are a number of characterful bedrooms, all with views of the surrounding countryside, while one very special room is clad in beautiful dark wood panelling originally from Bronsil Castle.

The house, which is grade II* listed, was added to Historic England's annually published at risk register in 2018, when the owners became concerned about the condition of its roof and some of the stonework.

They have since embarked on an ambitious scheme of works, carrying out extensive repairs to the stonework, frontal towers, chimneys, roof, rainwater system, drainage, windows, and more.

But despite the works being carried out and Historic England being informed, the house remains on the at risk register, with no site visit made by Historic England since 2018.

The body, which states it works to "protect, champion and save the places that define who we are and where we've come from as a nation", has apologised for failing to flag the house for possible removal from the register, citing the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown conditions for the oversight.

In correspondence with the owners, Historic England said the pandemic had forced the organisation to cease all site work for a prolonged period, which has resulted in a backlog of cases.

The organisation has now resolved to carry out a visit, but said the house will remain in the current edition of the register until the 2023 register is published, even if it is officially removed.

In Herefordshire, there are currently 56 buildings and sites on the 2022 'at risk' register. This is the same number as last year, with none of the local sites included on the 2021 register removed by the body.

Newcourt Manor is a private residence, but offers rooms for staycationers, enjoying an 'exceptional' rating of 9.5 out of 10 on booking site Booking.com.

Historic England has been contacted for further comment.

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