Abbotsford, the former Scottish Borders home of writer Sir Walter Scott is one of four historic locations to receive a confirmed share of £10.5m from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

The Melrose property has received £4.8m towards plans for a new visitor centre, a learning suite and the transformation of the Hope-Scott wing into new self-catering accommodation.

Newbridge Memorial Hall in Caerphilly, Wales, has been awarded £2.9m towards a full restoration of the Grade II*-listed building and the launch of a training programme for volunteers.

The Walronds in Cullompton, Devon, has secured £1.7m to help fund an extensive restoration project that will allow the ground floor and gardens to become available for wider community use.

Meanwhile, Wrest Park in Bedfordshire has been handed £1.14m to help efforts to provide improved visitor facilities, enhanced exhibitions and an increase in opportunities for volunteers.

HLF chief executive Carole Souter said: "What's exciting about these four projects is not just that they are all in wonderful places of historic importance, but that they will make a significant contribution to their local economies and to the quality of life of their local communities.

"Heritage can play an important role in economic recovery and we are anticipating an increased share of Lottery income from next year. We know how welcome this investment will be during the tough times ahead."

A further four schemes have been awarded first round passes by the HLF, which includes initial support for a full £1.5m bid by the National Memorial Arboretum towards the development of the site's visitor facilities.

Old Newcastle: 'Where the Story Begins' in Newcastle-upon-Tyne; St Mary at the Quay in Ipswich; and Croome Court in Worcestershire have also received initial HLF backing.

Image: Thomas Archer Pavilion, Wrest Park - English Heritage