Works to restore the historic Andrew Jackson Cottage in Boneybefore, Co Antrim, are nearing completion.

The £250,000 renovations involve replacing and repairing the traditional wooden beams, restoring the façade, new paving along the outside, damp repairs including installation of new heated flooring restoration of the traditional thatched roof.

Built in the 1750s, the Ulster-Scots farmhouse near Carrickfergus is named after the seventh President of the United States. His parents lived in the cottage before moving to South Carolina.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Lindsay Millar, said: "The Andrew Jackson Cottage is one of our must-see destinations for visitors to Mid and East Antrim. We are hugely proud of our links to the seventh President of the United States, and when making a visit to the cottage you really are stepping back in time to the 1750s.

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"These extensive works and investment from Council shows how committed we are to continually developing our tourism and hospitality industry. This sector continues to be a real success story with visitors flocking from around the world to take in our renowned attractions including the magnificent Carrickfergus Castle, the stunning Gobbins cliff path, key sites from the iconic Game of Thrones and of course our world class spa resort in Galgorm.

"This work will protect this invaluable attraction for generations to come and enjoy a real and authentic experience here in Mid and East Antrim. Regenerating Carrickfergus is one of our recently announced City Deal projects which could see £80m invested in the area. Tourism has a huge part to play in these plans and projects like this bolster Council's dedication to boost this sector and the local economy."

(CM/MH)