SCHOOLCHILDREN had a rare opportunity to view their village from a different angle when they visited their local castle.

Sheriff Hutton's landmark ruin is normally out of bounds, but as part of the ongoing restoration work, an open day was held for villagers.

Senior teacher Jane Tetlaw escorted about 70 pupils from Sheriff Hutton County Primary School to have a look round the familiar site.

"It was a real treat and they all thoroughly enjoyed it," she said.

"They thought it was brilliant because normally they just get to see it from the outside."

Miss Tetlaw said although the seven to 11-year-olds did not venture up the north east tower, they all had a fun day.

"We thought it was a fantastic opportunity because it is usually out of bounds.

"The senior architect spoke to the children about the work, and they were told about some of the history of the place."

She said: "They showed us the medieval toilet which, of course, was a high point with the children."

Updated: 10:30 Thursday, April 10, 2003