A Darlington museum has received an award for tourism.

The Darlington Railway Centre and Museum has been awarded the accreditation by the English Tourism Council.

The accreditation, known as VAQAS (Visitor Quality Assurance Service) recognises the museum as an excellent choice for a day out.

The museum was assessed by English Tourism on its service to the public including telephone manner, information supplied, the layout and general ease for the visitor.

Other attractions with the accreditation include the Imperial War Museum, in London, the National Railway Museum, in York and Beamish Open Air Museum in County Durham.

Claire Boston Smithson, tourism and heritage officer at Darlington Borough Council said: "We were really pleased to be awarded this and it serves to highlight the hard work and dedication of the staff at the museum.

"Quality is something we take very seriously in Darlington and the museum will continue to strive to provide the best service to our visitors."

Published: 29/03/2004