A NEW era has opened for the Elgar Birthplace Museum at Lower Broadheath, with the National Trust taking over the reins of the historic property for a trial period of five years.

A lease agreement has signed between the Elgar Foundation, which until now has been responsible for the building's maintenance, and the National Trust, and the new arrangement came into effect on December 9.

This follows two years of talks concerns about "the long-term future of the Museum and its financial viability".

Michael Clarke, from The Elgar Foundation, said: "We’re very happy to reach this agreement with the National Trust and view it as a big step towards securing the future of this important part of Worcestershire’s and the nation’s cultural heritage."

The museum has shared the story of Elgar, his music and his connection to Worcestershire life with visitors since shortly after his death in 1934.

Elgar personally requested that his birthplace, a cottage on the outskirts of Worcester, should be the site at which his music is remembered in order to celebrate the lasting inspiration he found in the surrounding landscape.

Michael Forster-Smith, General Manager for Croome and South Worcestershire for the National Trust, said, "The National Trust aims to look after special places for ever, for everyone and there is no denying that this is a special place. We are very excited about the opportunity to help secure the future of this site and to widen the appeal, awareness and understanding of Sir Edward Elgar."

He added: "We will reopen the site after a period of refurbishment and investment, including the installation of a brand new tea-room, in spring 2017."