It has been 50 years since Doneraile Court was first opened to the public but this magnificent house dating from the 1600s has been lying idle for over 25 years. Now, with a 1.6 million Euro windfall from the State coffers, the OPW will finally be able to restore it to its former glory. But it is a blank canvas as all the furniture fixtures and fittings were sold off over thirty years ago. It is in dire need of structural work, windows need replacing and walls and ceilings rebuilt. This is Mary and Christopher’s baby and they are working night and day to restore the house. The local community is key here and Mary and Chris have built up strong links with locals who are donating items from the house which they inherited or ‘acquired’ over the years. Former residents of the house such as Arthur Montgomery will give us a fascinating insight into the history of the house.