MORE than 1,000 people visited an open day at a Georgian mansion.

The event at Copped Hall in Epping gave people the chance to view rooms never seen before by the public, and look around the gardens.

An exhibition of watercolour paintings and drawings by artist Mark Luckhurst were on display in one of the rooms and a spinning wheel demonstration was given in the newly opened archaeological rooms.

Two members of the Copped Hall Friends played the recently acquired Broadwood piano and a ferret demonstration was held in the grounds.

Friend of Copped Hall member Trevor Roberts said: "Following an extensive renovation project visitors were allowed free movement within the building under the helpful guidance of stewards.

"Additional rooms which could be viewed were the Morning Room in the south of the building, which serves as a function and music room, and the partly renovated Grand Salon with its magnificent views of the grounds. This could be accessed via the newly opened personal rooms of Ernest Wythes, the last owner and resident of the Hall."

The event raised nearly £10,000 which will be used to help restore Copped Hall.

The next opportunity to visit the mansion and grounds will be on June 21 between 10am and 12pm with entry via the gates on Upshire Road.