HALL'S well . . . a recent survey of young visitors has given Chorley's Astley Hall top marks.

Of those who responded from local schools, 100 per cent rated their visit as 'good or very good' and almost half confirmed their reasons for visiting were because the tours were now related to the National Curriculum.

A quarter said they had been attracted by the special activities, including the recent popular artist workshops.

Nearly 20 per cent described the hall's custodians as 'helpful and knowledgeable', 'very welcoming' and also that they had 'a real understanding of young children'.

Councillor Mary Wilson, Chorley Borough Council's executive member for community services, said: "The survey shows what a wonderful educational resource Astley Hall is for local schools and reinforces the council's commitment to developing the lifelong learning potential of all its services".

"We are acutely aware of all the hard work put in by staff at the hall and of course we are pleased that it is paying dividends for the community we serve".

Maria Smith, Astley Hall's education and outreach officer, added: "While we are pleased and very satisfied with the results of the survey, we are determined that we will not rest on our laurels.

"A new grant-aided education pack is due for publication in January and links with school websites are also under development.

"At the same time we are looking at ways to improve the educational potential of not just the hall but also Astley Park itself."

The survey was carried out by consultants Chris Burnett Associates, who have been tasked with looking at the overall development of Astley Hall and park.

A key element of that will be to encourage more educational use. The final report is expected to be available early in the New Year. ASTLEY Hall: tours relate to National Curriculum