THE gates of Castle Drogo will be flung open on Friday, May 15 for a 'Spring Fling'.

The community open evening organised by Castle Drogo Youth Panel will celebrate Museums at Night and from 6pm to 9pm the castle gates will be open for people to enjoy time at the National Trust property outside normal opening hours.

The youth panel's aim is for this to be a relaxed evening where visitors can stroll in the garden, relax on the lawns, listen to music and watch the sun go down. There will be plenty of games and local musicians will be performing on-site, including the Wren Music Youth Choir at 6.30pm.

There will also be a 'pudding club' competition where everyone is welcome to enter a pudding of their choice, be it cake, biscuits, or anything else. All entries will be sold off to raise money for the castle's building project.

Paula Clarke, community and engagement officer, said last year's event saw more than 200 people enjoying the house and garden after hours. 

She said: 'The atmosphere was great, choirs singing in the house and families unwinding in the garden listening to live music — the perfect picnic opportunity in a glorious setting. It was brilliant. We hope that you will all bring your family and friends along and support our youth panel.'