THE decision to enhance certain areas of the Castle in Bude was not initially welcomed with open arms, but has since proven to be an effective use of the council’s money, last Thursday’s annual town meeting heard.

There had previously been protests against the council using funding to enhance the Castle with the addition of a conservatory and outdoor seating area. These additions have since proven to be of use as visitor numbers have increased since their installation.

During the meeting, Mayor Lea Deely gave a report on the positive impact the additions have made. She also spoke about further additions being made to the staff role in order to continue to improve the services that Bude provides to its visitors and parishioners.

Cllr Deely said: “These additions have proved their worth in the form of increased visitor numbers to both the Heritage Centre and Café Limelight. Comments in the ‘Visitor Book’ are full of praise for both. We are now looking to appoint a Castle manager to improve the services available to our parishioners and visitors alike.

“We are also implementing other staffing changes at the Castle. In this way we can further promote our galleries and the excellent wedding venue. When all posts are filled we will be able to pursue ways of following up the offers made for additional volunteers to become involved at the Castle.”

It was during a public meeting in December 1945 of the Bude Urban District Council that criticisms were made over the council purchasing the Castle. One member of the public pointed out the need for economy since the rates back then were set at 15 shillings in the pound.

But now it seems that the investments being made in the Castle so far have been worthwhile to the town and have continued to draw visitors in.

Councillors also heard and were pleased to acknowledge the work done by Brian Dudley Stamp, and on behalf of Bude and Stratton they have named a reading room in the Castle and sited a bench in the Castle Grounds in his memory.