AN iconic listed building in Ledbury has been given a new lease of life with an indoor refurbishment.

The Heritage Centre in Church Lane, which houses the Heritage Centre, has had all new display stands installed to give the centre's attractions their proper prominence.

The Grade II listed building's metal stands were designed by Alex Clive and house a collection of builders' tools for visitors to pick up and handle.

Finishing touches were applied by Stuart Houghton and the first floor also received some care and attention.

Under the worn grey carpet, which had covered the floor for a number of years, was a wonderful old wooden floor which experts believe is mainly elm with some Victorian pine thrown in.

Newly restored by trustees Mark Waller and Stuart Houghton, the floor can be seen in all its glory with the renamed Upper Floor ready to become an events venue for the town.

The space can accommodate up to 60 people and Ledbury Places hopes to offer a number of events including a film club once funding is secured.

The first ever event in The Upper Floor will be a talk and book-signing by local author Clare Wichbold.

Clare will be talking about her new book Hard Work – But Glorious, Stories from the Herefordshire Suffrage Campaign, copies of which will be available to buy from Ledbury Books and Maps who are supporting the event.

The talk is on Tuesday 20th July at 6.30pm. Tickets are £5 each, £4.50 for Ledbury Places members.

They are available from the Heritage Centre (open Thurs – Sat) or from Ledbury Books and Maps (open Mon – Sat).

For more information please contact Melissa Hawker at melissa@hawker.myzen.co.uk