The Elvaston Castle Estate Trust is bidding for control of the historic landmark on the outskirts of Derby.

The 19th Century castle had been the subject of a deal to turn it into apartments last year.

However, when the plan fell through Derbyshire County Council was left having to sell the property because it could not afford the annual £500,000 running costs.

Educational facilities

The trust is just one of the parties expected to submit a bid to run the site before the deadline next week.

Its plans include expanding educational facilities at the site and holding weddings.

A spokesperson said: "This is the only community bid, the other bidders will do it for their own ends.

"We hope the council will think this is the bid which will turn the castle into a community asset."

The successful bidder will announced by Derbyshire County Council by the end of May.