VIP tour round Doncaster Mansion House hailed a success

Residents were treated to a VIP tour of Doncaster's historic Mansion House as part of the town's heritage festival.
Raymond Smithurst, Pam Claybourn, Daniel Steer, Margaret Herbert and Steve Kimber, pictured outside the Mansion House during the open day for the Heritage festival. Picture: Marie CaleyRaymond Smithurst, Pam Claybourn, Daniel Steer, Margaret Herbert and Steve Kimber, pictured outside the Mansion House during the open day for the Heritage festival. Picture: Marie Caley
Raymond Smithurst, Pam Claybourn, Daniel Steer, Margaret Herbert and Steve Kimber, pictured outside the Mansion House during the open day for the Heritage festival. Picture: Marie Caley

Scores of residents took advantage of the opportunity to have a look around the building – one of only three Mansion Houses in the country.

The open-day event took place on Friday and was organised by Friends of the Mansion House, many of whom donned Victorian costumes for the event.

Raymond Smithurst, Pam Claybourn and Steve Kimber, pictured at the Mansion House during the open day for the Heritage festival. Picture: Marie CaleyRaymond Smithurst, Pam Claybourn and Steve Kimber, pictured at the Mansion House during the open day for the Heritage festival. Picture: Marie Caley
Raymond Smithurst, Pam Claybourn and Steve Kimber, pictured at the Mansion House during the open day for the Heritage festival. Picture: Marie Caley
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Margaret Herbert, of Friends of the Mansion House, said: “We held this open day so people could come and see this beautiful building for themselves.

“It’s a big part of Doncaster’s history.

“There are only three Mansion Houses in the country, and I think it’s the best one. We need to get people using it.

“We decided to dress up to get people’s attention, it’s an attraction.”

Raymond Smithurst, pictured by the Peace window in the Mansion House. Picture: Marie CaleyRaymond Smithurst, pictured by the Peace window in the Mansion House. Picture: Marie Caley
Raymond Smithurst, pictured by the Peace window in the Mansion House. Picture: Marie Caley

Pianist Brian Limb was on hand to provide entertainment as residents explored the ancient building.

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The open day was part of the Doncaster Heritage Festival which runs until Friday.

As part of the festival a series of events including talks, walks and workshops are taking place.

Karen Johnson, assistant director of communities, said: “This is a good opportunity for residents to learn more about Doncaster’s rich and varied history, as well as take part in some great events.”