A COUNTRY estate in Hagley is opening its doors to the public to help fundraising at a village church.

Hagley Hall's park will be open to visitors on Saturday June 7, to support The Friends of St John The Baptist church as they work towards providing disabled facilities for their ancient building, which is located on the estate.

The event will give visitors a rare opportunity to explore the park which has occupied the site since the reign of Edward the third.

The natural beauty of the area means during its development, Hagley Hall's park has required relatively little landscaping by the Lyttelton family, who have made the manor their home for around 250 years.

Visitors will also be able to view a range of structures including classical temples, a palladian bridge, gothic ruins and grottos, which were all fashionable park features during the 18th century.

Other attractions at the Walk in The Park event will include a fete, featuring a range of stalls, and cream teas, which will be available in the church.

The park will be open from 2pm, entrance costs £5, entrance to the fete costs £1, no dogs will be allowed in to the event.