Colchester's Natural History Museum is set to reopen in time for October half-term.

Colchester and Ipswich Museums were awarded £84,500 as part of the Government's recent £1.57 billion culture recovery fund.

The grant has helped to secure the future of Colchester's museum amid uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The museum, housed inside a former church, in High Street, will reopen its doors for the first time since the pandemic began.

It is set to reopen on Tuesday, October 27, and will remain open until further notice.

Visitors will not need to book in advance, but are reminded to visit in family bubbles of no more than six people.

Face masks must be worn inside the building.

A queuing system will be in operation and track and trace details will be gathered.

The Natural History Museum displays a vast array of collections that focus on wildlife and geology in Britain and north east Essex in particular.

The museum allows children to learn about the natural environment, whilst keeping them engaged through play and interactive exhibits, such as magnifying glasses and microscopes.

The museum is free of charge to visitors.

Julie Young, Colchester councillor responsible for culture and deputy leader of the council said: “We are thrilled to be opening the doors, once again, to this hugely popular museum in the heart of Colchester, and just in time for half term.

"Why not combine a trip with a visit to Colchester Castle."