ONE of the region's best loved venues is reopening this week after a four-month lockdown hibernation.

Middlesbrough's popular Dorman Museum will throw open its doors to visitors again from Thursday (July 30) in response to the latest easing of pandemic restrictions.

The move follows a frantic fortnight in which staff have worked round the clock to ensure young and old alike can enjoy its treasures in a safe and healthy environment.

In the latest transformation in its colourful history, the landmark building on Linthorpe Road has been given a complete Covid-safe makeover, with sanitizer stations on each floor.

The entrance of the building no longer faces the Cenotaph but has moved round the corner to Linthorpe Road, while visitors must now book tickets prior to arrival.

Extra staff will be on hand to chat about items in the Dorman's extensive collection charting Middlesbrough's rich history, and guide visitors around the building's new one-way system.

Some areas including the H2O gallery remain closed, but will be kept under review in response to the latest guidance from Government and Public Health England.

For the time being much of the Dorman's educational and community engagement activity has moved online, including the Little Lions under-fives group's story times and craft activities.

Throughout the lockdown period the focus has moved to sharing items and spaces within the building with an online audience, with regular social media posts celebrating the area's history and heritage.

The museum will also be offering two dates in August set aside for those who have been shielding and who may require a carer with them, with more time and fewer people around.

Arts Development Officer David Tuffnell said: "The past few months have been hugely challenging, and all the while this marvellous building has been just waiting to welcome back visitors.

"Our loyal customers will see some big changes in the museum and tearoom, but we know they'll understand these are necessary in order to comply with the latest Government guidelines.

"We are also hugely grateful to Middlesbrough Town Hall for helping to set up our ticketing system!"

Councillor Mieka Smiles, Middlesbrough Council's Executive member for Culture & Communities, said: "The Dorman Museum is one of the jewels in Middlesbrough's crown, and one that draws people from across the town and far beyond.

"The closure necessitated by the coronavirus pandemic was unavoidable, but it's been tough to take for staff and visitors alike.

"The long wait is finally over, and I know the Dorman will prove just as popular as it's always been - both and in its historic building and in its new life online."

For further information or to inquire about the ‘shielding only' dates, contact the Dorman Museum on 01642 813781 or email dormanmuseum@middlesbrough.gov.uk

To book tickets visit www.middlesbroughtownhall.co.uk or call 01642 81 51 81/729 729.