Iron Age fort built 2,500 years ago gets new owner

Cornwall Heritage Trust said it was "proud" to take ownership of the site

An Iron Age fort described as Cornwall's "best preserved" is under new ownership.

Warbstow Bury in Launceston, had been under the control of Cornwall Council, but will now be maintained by Cornwall Heritage Trust.

The 2,500-year-old site is a Scheduled Monument, a title which gives it protection from unauthorised change, under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979.

Cornwall Heritage Trust said it was "incredibly proud" to be able to be able to care for "such an important asset".

'Unclear purpose'

The trust protects historic places across Cornwall, and often gives people the chance to learn more about the sites through workshops or community activities.

Cathy Woolcock, Cornwall Heritage Trust CEO, said: "Warbstow Bury is a fascinating place, and we're excited to get started and keen to work with the community as much as possible."

Although the fort's purpose is unclear, archaeologists believe many were defensive, or for ceremonial use.

Cllr Loic Rich, cabinet member for environment and climate change at Cornwall Council, said: "The transfer of Warbstow Bury will help secure the future care and management of these special places by a dedicated local organisation.

"Warbstow Bury, as one of the largest and best-preserved hillforts in Cornwall, will now be safeguarded for future generations through this new custodianship," he said.