TWO cherished historic buildings attracting thousands of visitors to Halton each year are under threat, a Government study has found.

Medieval Norton Priory and Grade-II listed mansion Daresbury Hall have both appeared on the English Heritage register of buildings at risk 2006.

The 800-year-old Priory's Undercroft of west Range is described in the list as being in 'poor' condition and the east wall as being 'unstable' due to rising water and poor guttering.

The 18th-century Daresbury Hall is in an even more perilous state. English Heritage say the privately owned mansion suffers leaky roofs which have caused widespread dry rot.

It's condition is described as 'poor' and it has been awarded a priority A status.

A revised development scheme has been submitted to English Heritage, the report says, although no-one at the hall was contactable to confirm this.

Norton Priory has carried out some 'remedial repairs' but the report adds: 'A long-term solution has not yet been agreed'.

A spokeswoman confirmed a conservation management plan was due to be prepared by September but declined to comment further.

English Heritage is the Government's statutory adviser on and promoter of England's historic environment.

Norton Priory's museum and gardens remain open for business as usual.