Historic East Riddlesden Hall will reopen its doors to the public this Easter.

The 17th-century property -- in common with other National Trust sites in the region -- has been closed due to the foot and mouth crisis.

The hall -- and its grounds -- was due to reopen last weekend for the summer season, but the opening was put on ice.

Now -- following talks between the National Trust and the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food -- over half the trust's properties in the region are returning to business.

Liz Houseman, visitor services manager at East Riddlesden Hall, said: "Rules have now been relaxed which means we can open from Good Friday, which is great news.

"It has been a very frustrating time for us and we have had a lot of inquiries from the public about the situation.

"We explained the problem and referred them to other attractions in the area -- like the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway and the Bront Parsonage Museum at Haworth. We are delighted to be able to welcome everyone back to the hall in time for Easter."

An Easter Trail is being held in the garden on Good Friday, from noon-4pm. Normal admission prices will apply, plus £1 per child.

On Easter Monday there will be storytelling sessions in the Airedale Barn, at 1.30pm and 3pm. And on April 24 (1.30pm) the hall gardener will lead a walk looking at the spring flowers. Normal admission prices will apply.

* The hall will be open from 1-5pm on Saturdays and from noon-5pm on Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. It will also open from noon-5pm on Bank Holidays and Mondays in July and August.

For further information about National Trust sites visit the web site at www.nationaltrust.org.uk.