Staff at the National Trust are celebrating the 30th anniversary of Ightham Mote being donated into their care.

At the time of donation, in 1985, the Trust began extensive conservation work which cost £10m and took 20 years to complete.

The unique building, which displays a range of architectural developments from the early 14th century, was handed over by its previous owner - american businessman Charley Henry Robinson.

Bernadette Gillow, the general manager, who has worked at Ightham Mote for 18 years said: “This feels a real milestone for Ightham Mote. After the 20 years of the conservation project, we continue to preserve and protect Ightham Mote with ongoing conservation work, but it is good to mark this anniversary to give staff and those involved with the property for all these years a chance to celebrate all that has been achieved.”

Guests are now being invited to a garden party to celebrate the anniversary on May 19.

Relatives of Mr Robinson will be attending as will the Director General of the National Trust, Helen Ghosh.

The team at Ightham Mote would also be delighted to hear from anyone who was involved in the project who might like to attend the party and record their stories.

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