PRINCE Charles has turned down an invitation to officially open Corsham's historic almshouses.

The Grade I-listed 17th century buildings in Pound Pill have been renovated at a cost of £1.6m.

The Prince of Wales was asked to cut the ribbon to open the restored almshouses because of his interest in heritage properties.

But he has turned down the request to do the honours at the ceremony early next year because of prior commitments.

Trustee Anne Aust said: "We had hoped Prince Charles would open the almshouses and thought it would appeal to him because of his interest in heritage.

"The almshouses are Grade-I listed, but unfortunately we have been told he is not able to do it."

The trustees are still hoping another member of the royal family will be available for the opening.

The restored buildings will be handed over by the contractor to the trustees of the Lady Margaret Hungerford charity next month.

The renovation has created 10 homes for single Corsham people. Each has a sitting room, bedroom, kitchen and bathroom. The former master's house has been turned into a home for a couple.

The renovation scheme means the trustees can continue to use the almshouses in line with the aims set out by Lady Hungerford. She endowed them to the town in 1668.

The renovation was dogged by problems and almost did not go ahead when costs spiralled. It was forecast to cost £500,000 when first mooted 10 years ago, but eventually escalated to £1.6m. It was backed by money from English Heritage, North Wiltshire District Council, and the National Lottery's heritage fund.