Catherine Zeta Jones is rumoured to be interested in buying a 17th Century castle which has gone on sale in south Wales.

There is speculation the Hollywood star and husband Michael Douglas, who are expecting their second child together in the spring, are planning to buy Hensol Castle in the Vale of Glamorgan near Cardiff.

The castle has been home to a number of wealthy families

The Grade One listed building, set in 155 acres of land, is currently being used as a hospital for people with learning disabilities, but is due to close in 2004.

Since going on sale in January, more than 30 bids have been placed with property consultants, King Sturge, on the estate.

All prospective buyers must entered their application for the castle by 22 November with the successful bidder expected to be announced before the end of the year.

The estate is about 40 miles away from Zeta Jones' parents home in Swansea and close to a golf course - the sport is one of Douglas' favourite past times.

Welsh base

The couple, who celebrate their second wedding anniversary in November, are believed to be looking for a permanent home in Wales.

The estate is very beautiful and in a prime location in the Vale of Glamorgan

Bob Croydon, King Sturge

Currently, when the couple visit the area, they check into Swansea's marina-side Marriot Hotel.

The family already divide their time between homes in Majorca, Colorado and a �2m Los Angeles mansion.

A spokesman for King Struge refused to confirm on Monday, that the couple had bid for the castle.

The spokesman said: "Because of the tender process we cannot reveal who has put in bids or for how much."

Country house

However, Bob Croydon from the company said: "Since placing the estate on the market we have had considerable interest as it is very rare for a building and estate of this type to come on the market.

"The estate is very beautiful and in a prime location in the Vale of Glamorgan," he added.

The building is listed as a major Welsh country house and has been owned by a host of wealthy families.