**Important **

Due to unforeseen circumstances the Battle of Wakefield Event led by the Towton Battlefield Society and Frei Compagnie Re-enactors scheduled for 2nd January has been cancelled. The groups concerned wish to apologize for any inconvenience caused and are looking to delivering alternative activities in the future, particularly to celebrate the 550th anniversary of the Battle in 2010. However, there will still be a short wreath laying ceremony led by members of the Yorkshire branch of the Richard III Society to commemorate those who fell at the Battle of Wakefield. This will take place at the Duke of York Monument at Manygates Education Centre 24-26 Manygates Lane, Wakefield, WF2 7DQ  at 2.15 on 2nd January.

**Sandal Castle Visitor Centre Closure**

Sandal Castle Visitor Centre is to close temporarily until essential maintenance and improvements have been completed and staff vacancies can be filled.

The Visitor Centre will be open until 4.30pm on Sunday 22 November.

Sandal Castle itself is going to remain open so visitors can still enjoy walks around the cultural site. It is hoped the visitor centre will reopen early next year.

Sandal Castle stands in a commanding position overlooking the River Calder. 

The castle is best known for the famous Battle of Wakefield which was fought nearby in 1460 during the Wars of the Roses. Richard, Duke of York was killed in the battle.

During the English Civil War in the 1640s Sandal Castle was besieged twice by Parliamentary forces.  Afterwards, it was stripped of its defences.  

Remains of the 13th century stone castle and the fine motte and bailey can be seen on site.  Visitors can climb to the top of the motte where they are treated to superb views of the Calder Valley.   

The castle has been extensively excavated and finds can be seen in the Visitor Centre and at nearby Wakefield Museum, located on Wood Street, Wakefield.