Chance to bid for a rare peek around Ardgowan House

Estate owner Sir Ludovic Shaw Stewart has donated a private tour as an auction lot at the annual fundraiser at Greenock Town Hall on March 9, where it is hoped that the £30,000 raised last year will be smashed.

The gala will be hosted by football pundit Peter Martin and there will be live entertainment from The Brightside plus a fizz reception and three-course meal.

Sir Ludovic will show the winning bidders around the historic house which was recently used as the location for the BBC Drama Ordeal by Innocence.

His family has owned the estate since 1406.

He said: "We are offering the tour as one of the auction lots.

"It is a great opportunity to showcase all the hard work that has been going on.

"We have had a two-year refurbishment programme during which time the BBC filmed the Agatha Christie drama Ordeal by Innocence.

"We have made huge changes to make the house more of an events venue, hosting weddings and private tours.

"We want to showcase the treasures of Ardgowan while supporting the hospice at the same time."

There will also be afternoon tea in the Willow Room.

He said the tour will be of interest to people from all walks of life.

Sit Ludovic said: "These tours are designed to appeal to specialists, amateurs and enthusiasts alike, so whether you're interested in history, or simply curious to see inside, the winning bidders will be treated to an exclusive day out.

“The Ardgowan Estate is proud to support Ardgowan Hospice and looks forward to welcoming the winning bidders of this lot on this tour.”

The hospice is appealing for donations for the auctions and raffle, if anyone can help they should contact fundraising@ardhosp.co.uk or call Alex Mula on 558888.

A limited number of tables are still available and can be bought by calling the hospice on 726830.