HUNDREDS of heritage enthusiasts were out on the streets of an historic market town to view old buildings that were opened for a special event.

The opening weekend of Open Doors Ruthin, the annual heritage event organised by the Ruthin & District Civic Association (RADCA) and Cadw, was staged on Saturday and Sunday, September 7-8.

Some of the buildings – such as the Wynnstay Arms, the 16th century horse and carriage house; the Old Courthouse, the 800-year-old building being restored by the town council; and Nantclwyd y Dre, the oldest timber-framed house in Wales – received no fewer than 300 visitors.

Fiona Gale, organiser, said: “Last weekend was a great success with the town bustling with people clutching the Open Doors booklet and visiting the many places which were open."

Cllr Anne Roberts, chair of the Ruthin & District Civic Association, said businesses reported a busy weekend with above average sales due to increased visitors whom she hopes will return in coming months.

Cllr Roberts added: “We have a lovely town and Open Doors has showcased it for more than a decade, which has certainly helped with footfall.”

The second weekend on September 14-15 will turn to heritage in surrounding villages including the magnificent medieval painting of St Christopher in Llanynys Chapel and the grave of Coed Bach y Bala in Llanelidan