A FORMER prison governor's mansion turned homeless hostel has been given a £500,000 makeover.

Stoneleigh Manor in Brecon's Llanfaes had until 2008 been used by Powys County Council to provide short stay accommodation to homeless families. But the basic facilities, which meant all the residents had to share a communal kitchen, saw the council take the decision to close the building that was badly in need of renovation.

The building, which dates from the early 19th century, has been renovated by Wales & West Housing Association, which bought it for £150,000 in 2010.

Read the full story in this week's Brecon & Radnor Express - Out now!