A CAMPAIGN has been launched to save the former home of legendary explorer and diplomat Gertrude Bell.

During her illustrious career, she played a pivotal role in the creation of modern day Iraq and had a significant impact on the Middle East at the end of the First World War when new countries and borders were drawn in the sand.

Her childhood home, Red Barns, which stands in the heart of Redcar, was designed by acclaimed 19th century architect Philip Webb and also has architectural significance as it is one of the most important remaining examples of Arts and Crafts architecture in North East England.

The building, which has had many uses over the years including being a pub and hotel, has lain empty in recent years and fallen into a worrying state of disrepair.

Now the town's MP Anna Turley has stared a campaign to restore the rundown property and transform it into a community resource.

She said: "Red Barns has huge significance to the local area and it is tragic that such a beautiful building with so much history has deteriorated into such a poor state.

"Our proposal to save it and turn it into a museum and learning resource would allow a local venue for the display of exhibitions akin to the current Gertrude Bell display and Kirkleatham and help drive the growth of local culture and tourism.

"We are in talks with the private owners who, whilst having imminent plans to convert the building into flats, are sympathetic to the building's relevance to the community."

The campaign is currently engaging with various organisations to develop the proposal, including Newcastle University.

Dr Mark Jackson, lecturer in archaeology and manager of the Gertrude Bell Photographic Archive said: “As a girl Gertrude Bell was educated at Red Barns – full of energy and determination fostered at home – she grew up to be a woman of considerable international influence. A great believer in the value of heritage for people, Gertrude worked tirelessly to protect ancient buildings and to establish museums and libraries. She and her family were true pioneers.

"Given its history and significance, it seems very fitting that we should all join with the community in Redcar to help restore the Bell family home for the future.”

To support the community campaign visit www.facebook.com/saveredbarns/

Her amazing life story is being showcased at Kirkleatham Museum from Saturday, May 28, to January 2017 with diaries, letters, pictures and other items from her life all on display to the public.

To find out more about the exhibit go to: www.redcar-cleveland.gov.uk/kirkleathammuseum or to learn more about Gertrude Bell, visit: www.gerty.ncl.ac.uk