Sue Sykes (left), visitor reception assistant, and Sebastian Billing (right), visitor reception manager, welcome Blickling Hall's 150,000th visitors of the year, Peter and Sandra Opperan.

A north Norfolk stately home has defied the downturn by welcoming its 150,000th visitor of the year - and a big increase in numbers on 2010/11.

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Sandra and Peter Opperan from Norwich were the lucky couple to help Blickling Hall near Aylsham reach the landmark at lunchtime on Tuesday, February 21.

It means Blickling has recorded a 15pc increase in visitors in 2011/12, compared with the 2010/11 season.

Mr and Mrs Opperan said that they came to Blickling because it was a “complete package and a lovely day out”. They said they particularly loved to visit the garden, while they also visited with the Caravan Club in the spring and summer.

Sebastian Billing, visitor reception manager, said: “All the team at Blickling are absolutely delighted to have achieved this record-breaking milestone. We work hard to give the warmest welcome possible so that people want to return time after time.”