A RENOWNED sculptor is putting the finishing touches to the restoration of a historic gate through which thousands travel every year.

At least 150,000 people a year pass through the grade II-listed East gateway at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal near Ripon.

Now sculptor Timothy Lees is completing the replacement of the well-worn mask in the centre - thought to be Apollo.

Over the years the arched gateway has fallen victim to gradual weathering and general wear and tear.

The gates have long been recognised as the "announcing" feature of the estate but until recently they have received relatively little attention from architectural historians.

It had long been assumed they were from the mid-Georgian period, however recent archaeological and historical research has cast that in doubt and they are possibly earlier.

And while maintenance has been underway to conserve and repair the archway the National Trust has taken the opportunity to have a new mask carved to replace the badly worn image in the centre.

Mr Lees has been working closely with archaeologist Mark Newman and curator Chris Gallagher to create an accurate representation of the original.

"The replacing of the mask will restore part of the gate that has been lost for decades," said a spokesman.

"It will ensure that the East Gate remains an important aspect of the unique landscape at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal for generations to come."

*Mr Lees is an associate member of the Royal British Sculptors and is an elected member of the Mastercarvers Association. He has won numerous awards for his work.