The grounds of a 17th-century house are to undergo the biggest transformation in years – thanks to a £20,000 prize.

East Riddlesden Hall received more votes – 2,309 – than any other National Trust site shortlisted in the competition.

Staff will now embark on a programme of changes which will see new wildlife areas, places to explore, the revival of a dried-up lake, the establishment of allotments and the setting up of an angling club.

The hall is one of five National Trust properties sharing £100,000 in the Bovril Great Outdoors Revival. People were asked to vote for one of the 75 shortlisted properties they believed deserved cash support.

Cassandra Cowie, East Riddles-den Hall’s learning and community officer, said: “We’re thrilled to have enough money to restore the property, which wouldn’t have been possible without the thousands of votes and support from the local community. Since the trust acquired the property in 1934, the fields have never been open to the public, but now we have the means to change this.”

The work will be carried out on three fields which belong to the hall and run down to the River Aire. Dry-stone walls and gates will be restored and footpaths will be created for visitors to enjoy wildlife in their natural habitats.

The project, which will be spearheaded by a team of outdoor revival experts, is expected to be completed by the autumn.

People interested in getting involved in establishing the angling club are being urged to contact Nick Chuck or Mike Freeman on (01535) 607075.