THE castle stanchions have never looked lovelier!

Metal from the steel raking shores that held up Cardigan Castle for nearly 40 years has been included in a handmade piece of jewellery by Bridgend jeweller Nicola Paulterman.

The silver torque - complete with an englyn from chaired bard Ceri Wyn Jones - is being auctioned at a grand castle fundraiser being held this week at the Prince of Wales' country home Highgrove.

The necklace was the idea of castle volunteer Meifis Griffiths.

"It really is a beautiful piece of jewellery," said Cadwgan chair Jann Tucker.

"Including a piece of metal from the stanchions was inspired."

Bids for the necklace are being accepted at the castle offices on 01239 615131 until 5pm on Thursday.

The fundraising evening is to raise money towards Cadwgan's £150k community appeal - matchfunding for the £11m restoration grants.