The new property manager of a National Trust site has had a wealth of challenges since she started.

In her two months or so at East Riddlesden Hall, Janet Ritchie has had to deal with everything from invasions of frogs and wasps to a gorilla at a wedding.

During recent torrential weather she donned her waders and rescued cattle from five feet of water.

Her trials have not been limited to unexpected guests. She had to put on a video relay in the garden for a large wedding. After another wedding the bride and groom left for their honeymoon dressed as a gorilla and Tinkerbell.

All her efforts have been rewarded with local councillors and groups associated with the hall attending a party there and a National Trust magazine feature.

She said: "I loved the hall when I first came and I wanted to raise the profile in the local community." She was delighted by the magazine piece because up to three million members will read it.

Janet said she had always wanted to work for the National Trust. She was a volunteer at the National Trust for Scotland's Hill House for four years. The East Riddlesden job was advertised as perfect for a first property to manage, and had 90 applicants.

Janet, pictured, has worked for Royal Mail and in local government, running a mayor's office. She thought her varied work was perfect to cope with her new job.

Janet, who moved from Falkirk, said: "I did not expect to move from Scotland so quickly. I am still trying to get used to the Yorkshire accent."