ONE of the region's top tourist attractions is celebrating after winning another national award.

Hartlepool Historic Quay and Museum has been named Living Museum of the Year 2003 by the Good Britain Guide, gaining the award on the strength of visitor comments.

Staff wear period costume and receive training in such tasks as fencing and musketry.

Claire Munroe, Hartlepool Borough Council's marketing officer, believes the quay and museum won because it is an interactive attraction with lots of sights, sounds and activity.

Ms Munroe said: "Everyone involved with the Historic Quay and Museum is delighted to receive this prestigious award, particularly so soon after the Northumbrian Tourist Board named it Large Visitor Attraction of the Year.

"This is more confirmation that the quay and museum is nationally recognised as one of the most successful tourist attractions of its kind in the country. It makes learning fun and reminds the people of Hartlepool of their town's heritage."

Councillor John Lauderdale, the council's cabinet member with responsibility for town management, said: "This adds to the excellent reputation of the Historic Quay and Museum and recognises the dedication and enthusiasm of everyone involved with it."