A MUSEUM has officially opened an interactive centre with the help of a well-known author.

Writer Gervase Phinn helped Richmondshire Museum in North Yorkshire marked the opening of its new Discovery Centre on Saturday, March 30 at a special ceremony attended by local dignitaries.

The exhibition space aims to reach out to a younger audience and bring Richmond’s history to life for families and schools.

It was built with £50,000 worth of Heritage Lottery funding.

A number of new exhibits are on display in the centre. They include a medieval bell found locally, which is said to be associated with the Knights Templar, and a 1920s Wimshurst Machine used to demonstrate static electricity to pupils of Richmond Grammar School.

It also includes a mocked-up school room, a corner shop and interactive displays.

It was created in premises made available to lease by Richmond Town Council.

Dorothy Storry, who volunteers at the museum with her husband, John Storry, said: “It’s very interactive and aimed at schools and families. It’s great fun.”

More volunteers are currently needed to help in the museum. Anyone who can help can ring the museum on 01748-825611.