A CONSERVATION project at the Buckland Abbey — home of Sir Francis Drake — won a building conservation award this week.

The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors presented the Building Conservation award to the National Trust at a ceremony in London for the recently completed traditional Devon decorative lime-plastered ceiling to the Drake Chamber.

National Trust project team leader Ken Evans said: 'The RICS award marks a major achievement for the National Trust. This is the first time in the West Country that the National Trust has received this award, so it is a real credit to everyone involved.

'After ten years of planning and three years implementing, we are on cloud nine to be recognised for it.'

He said the ceilings were unique to Devon and very fashionable in the 16th century, as a sign of wealth and a privileged position in society.

The ceiling in the Drake chamber was destroyed by fire in the 1930s and replaced with a concrete one at the time.

'But that really didn't do the room justice,' said Mr Evans.

After more than ten year's wrangling to get the work approved, contractors from Plymouth and Bristol were found, who retained the ancient skills, and the £50,000 job was completed in just under 12 months.

Mr Evans was very impressed with the final result.

'It's quite an astounding piece of work,' he said.

l The abbey begins its Christmas celebrations this weekend.

Greenery from the estate — holly, ivy and pomander — adorn the abbey and can be seen each weekend afternoon from 2pm to 4.15pm.

The Christmas shop is opening tomorrow night (Friday) from 6pm until 9pm with mulled drinks and free gift wrapping, and this weekend watercolours by local artist Richard Woodgate will be on sale.

On Saturday there will be a brass-rubbing workshop, costing £6, and on Sunday Tavistock Handbell Ringers will be performing seasonal music.