Cars held up due to gate malfunction

LONG queues formed at the entrance to a National Trust property after an automated barrier malfunctioned.

Visitors’ cars tailed back on to the main road last weekend at Calke Abbey.

While the stately home itself is closed, its parkland and garden are open to visitors who have booked.

Visitor Simon Deacon said: “There was queuing off the main road.

“It did make me want to turn around and go home but we had booked.”

A National Trust spokesman said: “As we opened on Saturday there was unfortunately a fault with an automated barrier at the Ticknall entrance that caused it to stay closed, creating a back-up of traffic.

“The issue was rectified as quickly as possible.

“We know how important access to green space, nature and fresh air are to people, and we are doing everything we can to provide them.

“Feedback from our visitors has been very positive.”