Author Catherine Bailey preparing for emotional return to Wentworth

Catherine Bailey (pictured) related the absorbing history of Wentworth Woodhouse in her book, Black Diamonds.

Now she is returning to the massive mansion for a fundraising evening where she will meet fans, sign books and describe how she fell under Wentworth’s spell.

“When I first saw Wentworth Woodhouse I couldn’t believe that I had never heard of it, or that it looked so abandoned,” she said.

“There was something about the place that haunted me and when I began my research, this extraordinary story emerged.

“I was advised that 16 tons of historical papers on the house had been destroyed and there was nothing left to write it with, but I got amazing help from people in the village, many who had worked in the estate’s mines and in the house before and after World War II — many are still friends to this day.”

Attendees at the Catherine Bailey event will be greeted with a glass of fizz and canapés and more refreshments will be served later in the evening.

Tickets cost £28, with a £38 option which include a tour of the house at 5pm.

To book, call 01226 351161.