Southsea Castle cleaned 'for first time'

The walls of a Tudor castle are being cleaned, possibly for the first time since it was built, according to a Hampshire council.

Portsmouth City Council is restoring Southsea Castle by cleaning the walls, windows and fixtures.

The castle was built in 1544 for Henry VIII as part of a network of coastal fortifications.

More improvements will take place later in the year, including work on railings and architectural lighting.

A new cafe is also due to open when the castle reopens to the public in May.

Culture councillor Lee Hunt said: "Southsea Castle is a fantastic asset to the city and one that we really treasure, the jewel in our crown on the seafront."