VISITOR numbers to The Bowes Museum have exceeded those expected since it opened this month.

The trustees of the museum are delighted to announce that visitor numbers have already surpassed those expected for the whole month, less than three weeks after reopening its doors on August 1.

Feedback also shows that visitors feel safe, reassured and confident with the measures the museum has introduced to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Peter Mothersill, chairman of trustees, said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the support the museum has received from visitors. The resounding vote in confidence through such positive feedback is testament to the staff’s hard work in preparing the museum to ensure everyone who comes through the doors feels safe and welcomed.”

The museum has introduced a pre-booked admission process where visitors must buy a ticket for a timed entry slot to the collections, it has installed hand sanitising stations around the building and grounds, there are notices reminding people to adhere to social distancing and separate entrances and exits for both the museum and café.

It has also increased cleaning of all areas especially frequently touched points. A one-way system has been introduced in the shop and screens have been installed at all till points, contactless payment is preferred.

Visitors to the museum are able to enjoy extensions to the Norman Cornish: The Definitive Collection; Pre-Raphaelite Knights: Reinventing the Medieval World; and blimey!Lucretia exhibitions, as well as a whole host of family fun and young adult's events.

Tickets can be booked through the museum website at thebowesmuseum.org.uk or by calling 01833 690606.