The Changing Rooms star calls the estate 'fantastic'

"Tyntesfield is of national importance; we simply cannot stand back and let this spectacular place be broken up and lost forever.

"We are appealing to our supporters, members and other heritage bodies to secure the long-term future of this unique estate.

"However, time is not on our side on this matter.

"We only have until mid-June to place a firm bid for the estate and contents."

Restoration plans

Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, from BBC's Changing Rooms, said: "Tyntesfield is a fantastic, extravagant full-on Gothic Revival country house.

"It has an unrivalled collection of Victorian decorative arts, wonderful furniture, paintings and porcelain and its bold architecture shows Victorian confidence and taste at its best.

"We should all support the National Trust's campaign because it would be tragic for us to lose it."

Kylie is reported to be a potential purchaser

Should the trust's appeal succeed, local people will be asked to help repair and restore Tyntesfield.

The trust's plans would also allow public access to substantial areas of woodland and countryside.

Channel Four newsreader Jon Snow said: "For our grandparents, parents and children we owe it to the nation to ensure that Tyntesfield is placed safely in public hands.

"This is a once-in-a-generation chance to secure a brilliant example of Victorian architecture and living and to protect both the house and contents for generations to come."