Revamped museum to open its doors on bank holiday Monday

Residents and town centre visitors will be able to get their first glimpse of the new-look museum between 10am and 4pm.
The £2.26million project has included the restoration of the historic cloth hall and corn stores, creation of a new link building and visitor facilities, and complete refurbishment of all display and activity spaces to increase the total exhibition area by a third.
Funding was provided by local community groups and organisations, including £815,500 from West Berkshire Council, £100,000 from Greenham Common Trust, £40,000 from the Headley Trust and £1.2m from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
The museum closed in October 2010.
The executive portfolio holder for culture and leisure at West Berkshire Council, Hilary Cole (Con, Chieveley), said: “This is an amazing achievement.
“So much work has gone into the creation of what is now a fantastic public facility where people can learn about the history of West Berkshire.
“It is a real asset for the district and will provide a great home in which local heritage can be preserved and enjoyed by future generations.”
The council’s heritage and tourism manager, Amanda Loaring, added: “I have been working on this project for the last 15 years and it is great news that the museum is on the verge of reopening.
“We have tried to create a museum which encourages visitors to discover the past, engage with the present and think about the future of West Berkshire.
“The facilities are fantastic and the spaces both new and old are inspiring and the team are ready with a very warm welcome.”
The museum will be open from Wednesday to Sunday, and on bank holidays, from 10am to 4pm with free admission.