A RECORD breaking number of people have visited the home of one of Worcester's most iconic historical figures since it opened its doors to the public a year ago.

The Firs, birthplace of Sir Edward Elgar, at Lower Broadheath, near Worcester, is celebrating it’s first year of opening.

A record breaking number of 28,000 visitors have visited since the National Trust took over the operation of the museum in September 2017.

“It’s difficult to believe it’s already been a year since we first opened,” said Stuart Webb, the Firs operations manager.

“Time has flown by at such a pace, so marking our first birthday gives us a chance to pause, look back and celebrate how far we’ve come in such a short space of time. 

"I’m absolutely delighted by the support we’ve received from all those who share our passion and drive to build a fantastic legacy for Sir Edward Elgar at this special and unique place.”

Elgar's music is said to epitomise the Edwardian era and the composer has put Worcester on the classical music map.

Since opening, the Firs has been overwhelmed by the response they’ve received from their visitors and their visitor numbers have already exceeded the target they set at the start of the year.

Going forward, they hope to continue to build on this success, welcoming even more visitors over the next 12 months to share in their future.

The Firs is open seven days a week.

Opening hours are 10am until 5pm and the site includes exhibition rooms, a modern tea-room, cottage gardens and the birthplace itself.

There are also country walks in the surrounding landscape which are available to pick up for free from reception with another set coming soon.

There is free parking right outside the visitor centre with picnic spots.

Dogs are welcome on leads across the whole site apart from inside the tea-room and the cottage.

For more information call 01905 333330 or visit nationaltrust.org.uk/the-firs