A 'VERY angry badger' that forced staff to abandon parts of a 500-year-old castle has finally left the area but has still left parts of the complex closed after damaging masonry during its stay.

Staff at Craignethan Castle, near Lesmahagow, revealed last week that a "very angry badger" was in the cellar tunnel of the property.

Working with animal welfare experts, staff tried to coax the animal from the tunnel with food.

READ MORE: Craignethan Castle tunnel closed after 'angry badger' discovered

The tunnel was closed for both the badger and the public's safety.

Historic Environment Scotland, which manages the site, said the tunnel would remain closed until the completion of repairs to damage caused by the badger to some masonry.

The rest of the castle is open to the public.

Castle staff used food to try and lure the furious nocturnal animal and they have now discoverd it has left of its own accord.

READ MORE: Craignethan Castle tunnel closed after 'angry badger' discovered

Craignethan is a 500-year-old residential tower protected by an artillery fortification.

Badgers are thought to inhabit woodland surrounding the property.