CELEBRATIONS are under way to mark the 30th year since Castle Drogo at Drewsteignton opened its doors to the public The property, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens for Julias Drewe, founder of the Home and Colonial Stores, was given to the National Trust in 1974 by Anthony Drewe, grandson of Julius Drewe, and Anthony?s son Dr Christopher Drewe. Castle Drogo was the last castle to be built in Britain and became the first 20th century house to be cared for by the National Trust. Since it first opened to the public on Friday, March 25, 1975 this austere and stunning property, that hides within its walls a family home, has welcomed thousands of visitors. By 1978 more than 50,000 people had come to the property, rising to 100,000 in 1989. In 2003 the number of visitors rose to the highest ever with 123,000 visiting the property, making it one of the most popular visitor attractions in Devon. Mark Agnew, property manager for Castle Drogo said: ?We decided it was important to mark this anniversary in Castle Drogo?s history and remember that without this important gift to the nation by the Drewe family, thousands of visitors would not be able to enjoy this unique property. ?Visitors to the property this year will be able to enjoy the many celebrations we have taking place at the property and see a special memory wall created to record memories from previous visitors.? This year?s anniversary begins when members of the Drewe family join National Trust staff and guests, some of whom were at the original handover in 1975, cut a replica, larger than life cake reproduced to look exactly as it did in 1975. The 30th anniversary edition of Drogo?s guidebook will also be launched. Julius Drewe?s great granddaughter, Ruth Johnstone said the handover day seemed ? a little unreal.? ?The whole handover seemed to take about half a day in all. There was very little fuss, everyone was just eager to let the public in the next day and see how it all went. ?The next day was very odd, seeing the public pay to look around. It took some time for us to actually realise we were sharing the house, the gardens and drive, let alone the parking and the stables.? The National Trust would like to hear from those who have memories or photographs of visiting Castle Drogo during the last 30 years to use as part of their memory wall. Contact Catherine Maddern, visitor services manger, or Kate Swetman, house steward on 01637 433306.