A VANDALISED castle in the North York Moors National Park could be in line for a new lease of life as a holiday home.

The move, approved by the park authority, was one of several options put forward by the park's archaeologist Graham Lee, who said the 12th century Whorlton Castle has been the target of anti-social behaviour and vandalism for the past decade.

"Previous attempts to secure the site from vandals have all failed," he said.

New security measures at the castle were breached soon after that they were set up three years ago. "There is a general consensus that the only way to find a long-term solution to stop the vandalism and damage to the castle is to have a human presence on the site."

But vandalism is not new to the castle - back in 1875, a large amount of its stonework was robbed to build the nearby village church at Swainby.

"Subsequently, the castle has remained derelict and little used but is open to the public and is regarded as a quiet atmospheric place for visitors to enjoy," said Mr Lee.

Potential future uses for the castle include making its gatehouse into a holiday home or a private house, repairing the ruins to preserve the site as a tourist attraction, or to have the castle cared for by the community.

"The status quo is not felt to be an acceptable option due to continuing damage," said Mr Lee.

An action list has been drawn up, including a feasibility study, applying for scheduled ancient monument consent to dig trial holes for foundation and soil investigations, to carry out investigations through a structural engineer, and to investigate a crack in the north wall.

In addition, Mr Lee said talks are to be held with a neighbouring farmer about vehicles causing heavy rutting around the ruins, and damage by horses on the outer bailey. "There is widespread support for an initiative that conserves the site with the local community," said Mr Lee.

English Heritage has offered 50 per cent grant aid towards the cost of a feasibility study.

"Whorlton Castle is an important site in the national park and its future management is of concern to the authority," he added.

A conservation plan is to be adopted for the castle - what Mr Lee describes as a "professional review" of the castle and its future management.

Updated: 10:41 Wednesday, March 16, 2005