Opening date for delayed museu

Experience Barnsley was supposed to be up and running last July, but a series of delays hit the project, which was funded with a £2.6m Heritage Lottery grant. Part of Barnsley’s Town Hall has been converted for the attraction, which is described as a “People’s Museum and Discovery Centre” by those behind the project.

Thousands of objects will be on display, including those donated by the public and pieces brought back to Barnsley which have been in storage elsewhere. Exhibits will include a 221-year-old fire engine made by a local inventor, hoards of Roman coins found in Barnsley borough and Barnsley-made tennis balls which were used in the finals of Wimbledon tennis championships. The official opening will take place on June 27, in what a council spokesman described as a “very special ceremony”, although the exact details due to be revealed at a later date.

The council’s culture spokesman, Coun Linda Burgess, said: “I’s sure it will be a fabulous ‘experience’ for all visitors and ensure Barnsley is a place we are all proud of.”