The 70th anniversary of a museum will be marked with a day of party celebrations.

Tomorrow, Saturday, June 3, is 70 years since Preston Park Museum & Grounds, owned by Stockton Council, was officially opened for the first time as a public museum.

From 10am until 4pm, there will be a host of family-friendly activities to enjoy at the Eaglescliffe museum, including facepainting, balloon artists and cake decorating. The first 70 visitors on the day will also get a free cupcake.

The museum is also appealing for donations of artefacts such as old photographs, guidebooks and leaflets, which relate to its early years.

It’s hoped that the public appeal will help the museum improve its archive from its opening in 1953 to the early 1970s.

Councillor Steve Nelson, Stockton Council’s cabinet member for health, leisure and culture, said: “We’re delighted Preston Park Museum & Grounds has provided people with special memories over the past 70 years and we’re looking forward to celebrating this milestone birthday with visitors.

“So why not come along and enjoy the day this Saturday – and you could even bring a picnic to enjoy in the orchard or on the tables in the Victorian Street.

“We’re proud of the vital role the museum plays in telling important stories about our people and local heritage with its extensive collection of 100,000 fascinating and unique objects. And this is why we’re appealing for donations of artefacts to further extend the offer.”

The usual admission fee applies for Saturday's events.