A WEEKEND dedicated to the armed forces has resulted in a £1,500 donation to a Northern Echo appeal for wounded, injured and sick soldiers.

Castle Bolton, near Leyburn, pledged entry fees from all visitors on Armed Forces weekend, June 28 to 29, to the Echo’s £100,000 appeal for a performing arts facility at Phoenix House recovery centre in Catterick Garrison.

As well as entry fees the tourist spot was holding an art exhibition of work created by injured service personnel and veterans from Phoenix House, and sales took the total raised to £1,500.

Tom Orde-Powlett, whose family owns the castle in Wensleydale, and who served seven years with the 1st Battalion Irish Guards, wanted the proceeds to go specifically to Phoenix House.

As well as the display of woodwork and art by residents at Phoenix House, there was also a display of entries from years five and six at Le Cateau School in Catterick Garrison for a competition to design a t-shirt.

10-year-old Lily Nicholson-Hume’s winning logo was put onto t-shirts by Voi Jeans in time for the weekend’s commemorations.

Tom Orde-Powlett said: "I was delighted to be able to support this incredibly worthwhile cause and the feedback from visitors was great too.

“The quality of the artwork, by both the schoolchildren of Le Cateau and the veterans was inspiring and thought provoking.

“There is already huge support for Help For Heroes nationally and sadly I fear the need for places like Phoenix House will become increasingly clear over the next couple of decades, as soldiers who have experienced war have to adjust to civilian life."

Bolton Castle is open from 10am to 5pm daily, with the tea room closing at 4.30pm.