INVERCLYDE’S 2014 Doors Open Weekend saw record visitor numbers — and that is not a ‘Fawlty’ statistic.

More than 5,000 locals and visitors to the area took the chance to look inside 45 of Inverclyde’s most interesting venues, an increase of seven per cent on last year.

One of the most popular venues was the Beacon, where tours ended with actors — who were playing the part of the Fawlty Towers cast — ‘taking charge’ of the busy bistro.

Manuel, Basil, Sybil and Polly had their guests doubled over with their antics in what was one of the favourite events of the weekend.

The venues were manned by a total of around 150 volunteer guides and the old Tobacco Warehouse in Greenock’s Clarence Street was the top attraction, with 754 visitors.

It was followed by Greenock Fire Station and the Dutch Gable House in William Street, with 600 and 534 visitors respectively.

The overall total of 5,000-plus visitors topped last year’s figure in spite of the fact that a cruise ship which was in port 12 months ago had helped to boost the numbers back then.

Dominic Quigley, of Quigley Architects, who organised the opening of the old Tobacco Warehouse, said: “It was an amazing and extremely busy weekend, with visitors from all over Inverclyde and the surroundings areas.

“We look forward to taking part again next year.” Tourism chiefs say visitors were genuinely impressed with the wonderful architecture in the area as they got the chance to glimpse inside varied venues, including The Custom House, the new £44 million Port Glasgow Community Campus, McLean Museum and many of the churches across the area.

More unusual venues like Inverclyde Council’s materials recycling facility proved very popular too, with every tour being completely over-subscribed.

Visitors particularly enjoyed the opportunity to see how the contents of Inverclyde’s blue bins are sorted.

The council’s environment and regeneration Convener, Cllr Michael McCormick, said: “Inverclyde Doors Open Weekend provided local people and visitors with the opportunity to see inside buildings that they wouldn’t normally be able to visit.

“I’m delighted that so many visitors took the change to get out and about in Inverclyde over the weekend and uncover some of our area’s hidden gems.

“I would personally like to thank the splendid army of volunteers who made the event such a rousing success.

Doors Open Days take place throughout Scotland during September each year and are part of European Heritage Days.

Next year Inverclyde will be opening its doors again on 12 and 13 September.

But the planning process starts in early January, so if you run a potential attraction and want to take part in 2015 then please get in touch with the council now on 717171.

See today's Tele for full pictures.