CHARITY fundraisers need to be bright sparks if they are to keep the spotlight on our local history.

A recent restoration appeal for Berkeley Castle raised £140,000 for works to the castle’s exterior, however priorities at the castle have now changed as the entire castle needs re-wiring.

"The restoration appeal was launched initially at the end of 2006, with a view to raise funds to undertake some of the urgent works highlighted by the Condition Survey that had been undertaken the year before," said Vicky Parr, of Berkeley Castle.

"However, our focus has had to change from the fabric of the building to the infrastructure. Unfortunately electrical re-wiring is not such an attractive project for fundraising, but we hope to be able revert back to fundraising for stone work and internal conservation in due course, as there is still plenty of work to do.

"The Castle is of course a charity and all of our activities help raise funds for the preservation of the Castle."

In 2008, the Castle was licensed for civil weddings and partnerships, which is also helping to boost funds to the charity.

"We are also developing a programme of special events and activities during the summer to encourage more visitors to the Castle," added Vicky. "Every little helps."