A MUSEUM in Worcestershire is marking its re-opening after a £50,000 refurbishment with a free open day.

The County Museum in Hartlebury has been closed throughout January but is scheduled to open on Friday, February 1.

Nineteenth and 20th century costumes that normally remain out of sight will be on display for visitors to look at following refurbishment work to the museum's display area.

The area will also re-display costume and archaeology artefacts that include the Hartlebury Half Crown, minted at the castle during the Civil War.

Rachel Robinson, Worcestershire County Council's museum visitor officer, said: "This has been an exciting time. We have spent the last month refurbishing areas of the museum so that visitors can see the exciting displays of costumes and archaeology artefacts, unseen by the public before.

"We are also looking forward to the extensive programme of events that are planned for this year. We have an array of activities that will guarantee a great day out for all members of the family - the transport festival, the teddy bears' picnic and the murder mystery, to name but a few. These are exciting times ahead for the museum."

The museum café has also been refurbished, and offers a new menu with home-cooked lunches and snacks.

Normal admission to the museum costs £4 for adults, £2 for children and concessions and £10 for a family ticket (two adults and two children). The museum will be open Tuesday to Friday from 10am until 5pm and at weekends and bank holidays from 11am until 5pm.

Anyone who wants further information about the museum and forthcoming events should contact Rachel Robinson on 01299 250416 or log on to www.worcestershire.gov.uk/museums