AFTER long wait, the Museum of Royal Worcester in Severn Street is open again.
The official reopening ceremony was led by Mayor of Worcester, Cllr Jo Hodges, at the end of last month in the company of Sir Michael Perry, trustees chairman, volunteers, supporters and staff.
Sophie Heath, museum director, said: "We’re delighted to open up our spacious galleries and Worcester’s porcelain heritage to visitors again where people can enjoy a safe day out with confidence.
"We have produced a two-minute video guide on our website to give visitors a preview of what to expect from their visit.
"And we’ve launched special shielding slots for over-60s from 10am-10.30am to make the museum experience available to as many people as possible.
"As a thank you for the outstanding efforts of NHS staff and keyworkers, the museum is also offering a 50 per cent discount on entry – they just need to use the code nhsTQ20 when booking and present their staff pass on arrival."
The Mayor enjoyed a tour of the museum and saw at first hand all the social distancing and hygiene measures to enable people to feel welcome and comfortable. She fondly recalled that the building had previously been former primary school, St Peters, which she had attended as a child.
The museum houses the largest collection of Worcester porcelain in the world, together with the factory and design archive.
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Sir Michael Perry said: “Staff have prepared a one-way system around the museum and are managing visitor flow by introducing a new advance booking timed ticket system so that people can enjoy inspiration and relaxation in person with family and friends on an uplifting and memorable day out.
"We’re grateful that The National Lottery Heritage Fund for their support of our re-opening – it’s been a lifeline to us and others who are passionate about sustaining heritage for the benefit of all.”
The Museum of Royal Worcester is open Thursdays to Saturdays, 10am to 5pm and 10am to 4pm on Sundays. To book a timed ticket, visit museum-of-royal-worcester.arttickets.org.uk
As per government guidance, visitors are expected to wear a face covering immediately before entering and to keep it on until they leave.
To find out more about the Museum of Royal Worcester, visit museumofroyalworcester.org facebook.com/TheMoRW Twitter @TheMoRW
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