The Kent home of Sir Winston Churchill hosted a topping-out ceremony today as work on a six-month reproofing project was completed. The National Trust property, near Westerham, has been covered by five storeys of scaffolding since last October.

Old tiles dating back to 1922 have been replaced with clay tiles that were handmade in Sussex.

Sir Winston, the BBC’s 'Greatest Briton', lived at the house in Westerham, on the Kent/Surrey border, with his family for over 40 years .

His great-grandson, Randolph Churchill, was due to lay the last of the 30,000 new tiles in a ceremony on Sunday afternoon. The National Trust said the reroofing project, which cost £500,000, would ensure the future of the property for 100 years.

The National Trust house, which has 180,000 visitors a year, reopens to the public on Saturday, March 14. Among Chartwell’s attractions are:

>> An unrivalled collection of Churchill paintings, photographs and memorabilia

>> Beautiful rose and water gardens commissioned by the Churchills

>> Countryside walks with stunning views over the Weald

>> Productive vegetable garden, restored using original plans

For more details on days out at Chartwell call 01732 866368