THE Duke of Gloucester visited the newly restored Master’s House in Ledbury this morning, signing the first comment in the building's guest book.

His Royal Highness cut a cake to celebrate the opening of the building which has seen over 100,000 visitors in its first year.

The Master’s House on Bye Street dates back to the 16th century when it was originally the home for the Master of St Katherine’s Hospital.

Thanks to a grant of £2.4 million from Herefordshire Council and £1.7 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund restoration was carried out between 2011 and 2015.

He said: “It’s my pleasure to come here and visit this very pretty town. It has been great to hear how you have returned a building into a bit of noble history.

“By stripping back the building you have found its medieval underwear which you have done perfectly.

“Clearly Ledbury has an inspiring history as a result of this building and the hospital. The town had a very significant institution where as other town’s had a leading family controlling it.

“Clearly this gave your town a special civil purpose greater than other towns. You must all be pleased that you can reveal this monument that was hidden in the 18th an 19th century.

“I hope that following generations will regard this project as the right thing at the right time.”

The Duke also visited stall holders of the Ledbury Country Market and brought a handmade piggy bank from one stall owner.