EYE-watering increases to hire fees under Farnham Castle's new management company have forced several community groups to cancel their events at the castle.

In some cases, organisations previously charged between £200 to £350 to hold events at the castle have seen fees rise ten-fold, to as much as £4,500.

The Castle's new management company, Farnham Castle Operations Ltd, says it has increased fees with the hope of turning around the venue's dwindling trade.

However, as well as reforming its financial viability, the new company also said upon taking over the castle that they would uphold its integral role within the local community.

For full story, see this week's Farnham Herald.