LANCASTER Castle is set to feature in a BBC programme this summer.

The BBC's production team is currently at the castle putting the finishing touches to filming for 'Country Tracks'.

The series of programmes focus on the countryside and historical features within counties across the country.

The episode featuring Lancaster Castle is currently scheduled to be broadcast in June.

Lancaster Castle's prison, which has operated since 1955, has recently closed, but a significant part of the building is still open for tours.

Steeped in over 1,000 years of history, Lancaster Castle is the site of many important events over the centuries from the power loom rioter! s of 1812 and 1826 to the trial of the Birmingham Six in 1975. The infamous Pendle Witches were tried in the castle in 1612.

Christine Goodier, Lancaster Castle Manager, said: "Lancaster Castle has played a crucial role in the county's history over the years.

"We're pleased that people across the country will be able to catch a glimpse of the castle on the BBC's Country Tracks programme and hope it will encourage some of them to come along and visit.

"Some people think that the entire castle has closed its doors following the decision to close the prison – but this is not the case.

"We're reminding people that the castle is very much still open.

"People can come for tours of the historic court room, where crown court cases are still heard, be locked in the old cells and see a fine collection of Gillow furniture and much more.

"Visitors can pay on the door or invest in an Xplorer Pass, which costs! £20 (£21.50 by mail order) for a family or £12 for an individual – this is excellent value considering it gives people access to all Lancashire County Council -run museums for a year."