THE future of a tourist attraction in Wensleydale has been guaranteed by a grant of more than £500,000.

The grant means the North East Civic Trust can buy and restore Gayle Mill, near Hawes.

The building's future has been uncertain since it closed as a sawmill in the 1980s. However, the trust has fought to save the mill during the past five years and yesterday's announcement that the Heritage Lottery Fund will contribute £585,000 towards the cost of restoring the building signalled a successful end to the campaign.

Last year, regional development agency Yorkshire Forward pledged £100,000 to the campaign and, with more money raised locally, it is hoped the building could be open to visitors by next Easter.

"The last few years have been difficult, and it was by no means certain we would achieve our aim," said Alec Dinsdale, who has chaired the working group which led the bid for funds.

"But we have, and I hope everyone can join with us in being as excited about its future as much as about its past."

Director of the North East Civic Trust, Graham Bell, said he was thrilled by yesterday's news.

He said: "These projects don't fall into place easily, so we appreciate everyone's support. I am sure even more of the mill's secrets will be revealed in the coming months, enabling us to tell its story to visitors, but I also look forward to seeing it help the local economy.''