AROUND 100 people travelled from across the country to get a unique insight into a historic World War 2 bunker near Stourbridge.

An open day held on Sunday (December 7) gave visitors chance to look around Drakelow Tunnels, near Kinver Edge, and support a bid to renovate the underground complex and turn it into a permanent tourist attraction.

A group of volunteers working to restore the subterranean site for the benefit of future generations want to build a museum and visitor centre - and renovate the Cold War section of the complex.

As well as raising money for the project, the open day supported Guide Dogs for the Blind, with visitors raising £110.37 through cash donations and the volunteers handing over £200 from entrance money to the charity.

A further £106.44 was raised by the charity through people buying items or playing games on their stall.

Volunteer Michael Scott said: “The open day was brilliant and we had people come from all over the UK, including Devon and Northern Ireland.

“We only advertised the event for two weeks before and so we were amazed at the turnout which nearly topped 100 visitors, some of whom had come to our previous open day and returned for a second visit.

“Visitors were of all ages too and they were all left awestruck by it. It was great to show them around. We have a Facebook page and a website which has many pictures but there is nothing like the experience of walking through the tunnels and seeing the scale of the site in person.

“Everyone was very positive towards the idea of saving the tunnels and turning it into a museum, so people in the future can learn about the WWII war effort and the top secret workings of a Cold War bunker, all under one roof.”

Mr Scott added: “As well as raising money for our project, we like to support other charities such as Guide Dogs at our open days. As a group relying on donations in the future, we have grown to appreciate the importance of charities.”

The group will continue with the renovation of the tunnels and will be looking to apply for lottery funding next year. Another open day will also be arranged in due course.

Mr Scott said: “We are hoping 2015 will be a great year to push ahead the renovation as this year has already been a great achievement from the 15 volunteers who travel from as far as Stafford and Banbury to give up their time to maintain the complex.”

People can find out more about the group by visiting https://www.facebook.com/SaveDrakelow/timeline