VISITORS to a historic garden will be offered a 'once-in-a-generation' chance to see one of Europe's grandest fountains up close while it is being restored to its former glory.

A temporary platform is opened to the public this weekend

at Witley Court and Gardens as part of works to clean and repair the delicate stonework of the Perseus and Andromeda fountain.

The platform - which will be in place from Saturday, October 1 until Monday, November 28 – has been erected as part of major refurbishment works by English Heritage on 'one of Europe’s grandest fountains'.

Visitors will be given the opportunity to watch experienced stone masons and conservators carry out intricate masonry repairs, and clean the fountain’s Portland Stone.

The most delicate part of the works will see the replacement of Andromeda’s arm, which sadly suffered weather damage late last year.

Inspired by Greek mythology, the fountain features Perseus riding a winged horse and spearing a sea monster which threatens to devour Andromeda, who has been chained to a rock by Poseidon, the God of the Sea.

Designed by James Forsyth in Portland Stone and featuring 120 jets hidden among sculptures of shells, sea nymphs and dolphins, the fountain is to be fully cleaned and restored by April 2017, when it will once again begin firing to entertain visitors.

Jenny Hatton, site manager at Witley Court and Gardens, said: “We are delighted that work is under way to return the Perseus and Andromeda Fountain to its beautiful best, and it is especially great to be able to give our visitors a once-in-a-generation opportunity to share in this process with us. Join us to witness the conservation of this important landmark in action.”

Witley Court was once a famed party house but since a 1937 fire it has stood as a spectacular ruin surrounded by beautiful gardens.