Volunteer-run museum gets national recognition

A volunteer-run local heritage museum documenting the history of an ancient Cotswold market town is celebrating after being awarded official national accreditation.

Charlbury Museum & Heritage Centre has been recognised under the UK Museum Accreditation scheme by Arts Council England.

The independent Oxfordshire museum said it was an "exciting opportunity to expand and professionalise" its work in preserving Charlbury's heritage for future generations.

Founded in 1949, the museum operates as a charity and has exhibits including a model of the Market House, demolished in the 1870s and a restored Victorian wagon.

It said the "landmark award" would help put it in a stronger position when applying for grants and outside funding.

In a statement, it said: "Gaining accreditation required a huge amount of work over the last three years by museum volunteers, stewards and supporters in Charlbury.

"The trustees are enormously grateful for all the hard work which so many people have put in to achieve this."