Axminster Heritage Centre is getting ready to reopen its doors on Tuesday, May 18.

Staff and volunteers are excited to welcome back visitors and are busy working behind the scenes in preparation.

Centre manager, Nigel Sadler, said: "The country is now on the path set by the government of gradual relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions. The first happened on April 12 when things like non-essential shops opened and we at the Axminster Heritage Centre are pleased to see many of Axminster's independent traders now open.

"Under the government plans, museums will be permitted to reopen from May 17. At this stage we are planning to open on a limited basis."

Axminster Heritage Centre will open from Tuesday, May 18 with the following opening hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays 10am-4pm, Saturdays 10am-1pm.

The limited opening hours will allow the centre time to do a thorough clean in between opening times.

Visitors are advised that there will still be a queuing system in place but it is not necessary to book in advance as the museum has a designated one-way route and two-metre social distancing in place throughout the building.

Face coverings must be worn at all times.

Nigel added: "In accordance with government guidelines all of our interactives are still not available but our young visitors can still pick up a free activity booklet to be completed during their visit."

"Once the museum reopens people wishing to renew their memberships or book tickets for our planned coach trips can do so at the reception on days we are open.

"Also, our Bradshaw Meeting Room will have restricted opening after May 17 so please watch out for announcements of our workshops run by Heritage Alive.

"We are following government announcements and hope that we can have further increased opening hours after June 21.

"Please monitor our announcements on our Facebook and website pages. We look forward to welcoming you soon!"

Entry to the Heritage Centre costs £3 for an adult, children 16 years old and under go free. Those living in the EX13 postcode area are eligible for free entry on the last Saturday of each month.

For more information email Nigel Sadler on [email protected]

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