A MUSEUM that pays tribute to east Cleveland's rich mining history is on the lookout for new volunteers.

The Tom Leonard Mining Museum in Skinningrove is currently closed until Easter but there is plenty happening behind the scenes in preparation for the big curtain opening.

The museum has recently been awarded funding from the Awards for All programme, which will enable it to offer a range of activities to individuals who are interested in participating with the running of the museum in the year ahead.

Volunteers get involved in a range of activities, including guiding visitors around the site, manning the reception and helping to conserve the collection of artefacts.

A programme of talks and activities is planned at the museum for people interested in joining the team, starting on Wednesday January 16.

Kate Brennan, Marketing Manager at the museum has been organising the series of training sessions and said: "The museum relies on its volunteer team to open to the public, and the winter is a great time to get all our volunteers together. Thanks to the funding we have obtained recently, we have lots of plans forall of the winter season.

"People can get together and learn from speakers and each other about the different aspects of Cleveland's mining traditions."

Anyone interested in joining the team should call Kate Brennan on (01287) 642970