FOREIGN travellers stranded in the UK because of the volcanic ash cloud are to be given free entry to National Trust properties while they are in the country.

FOREIGN travellers stranded in the UK because of the volcanic ash cloud are to be given free entry to National Trust properties while they are in the country.

The Trust has made the move as a thank you to those countries currently hosting an estimated 150,000 Britons stranded abroad.

Travellers simply have to arrive at a National Trust property with a flight ticket from the affected period together with their passport.

More details are available on the Trust website nationaltrust.org.uk

The Trust will run the offer as long as people remain stuck in the UK, giving stranded travellers the chance to some of the other places they may not have had time to enjoy.

Director General of the National Trust, Fiona Reynolds, said: "British travellers stranded overseas have been shown tremendous hospitality by their hosts. This offer is a way of reciprocating that kindness and saying thank you on behalf of the country."

The Trust looks after more than 300 properties, gardens and ancient monuments as well as sections of coastline and countryside. Places near airports in our region, where passengers may be delayed despite restrictions gradually being lifted over UK airspace, including :

Stansted: Hatfield Forest (four miles), Coggeshall Grange Barn (23 miles), Paycocke's House (23 miles) and Wimpole Estate (36 miles)

Luton: Dunstable Downs and Chilterns Gateway Centre (11 miles), Shaw's Corner (12 miles) and Wimpole Estate (33 miles)

Norwich: Blickling Hall (11 miles), Felbrigg Hall (20 miles), Sheringham Park (24 miles) and Horsey Windpump (24 miles).