Unique exhibits at Bexhill museum

Exhibits that can't be found anywhere else in the world feature at the new £2million Bexhill Museum.

The museum reopens to the public at the end of the month following an extension and refurbishment programme.

Galleries feature world record-breaking cars, the finest collection of historical costumes in the South East, rare dinosaur fossils and fascinating exhibits on the town's history.

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The redevelopment has been funded by Rother District Council, the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Society of Bexhill Museums.

Bexhill's rich motoring heritage is celebrated with a permanent exhibition including a record-smashing battery powered car, a replica of a steam-driven former Land Speed Record holder and a rare sports car. All the vehicles have links with the town.

A new fashion gallery features the historic and unique collection formerly held at the Bexhill Costume Museum. It opens with a temporary exhibition focusing on the struggle for women's rights.

The refitted Henry Sargent Gallery includes dinosaur remains of international importance, as well as exhibits on local history, including the architect's model of the De La Warr Pavilion and Lowry's painting of the Down Mill.

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With stunning levels of interactivity the museum leaps into the 21st century. Visitors can explore how engines work, change a car tyre and find out more about Bexhill's history through audio visual displays.

For the first time the museum will offer a dedicated education room to support school visits and provide space for family and community focused activities.

Cllr Deirdre Williams, project sponsor, said: "We are thrilled after so much hard work the museum is finally about to open. Residents and visitors will be given unrivalled access to the town's history in a stunning new environment."

The Society of Bexhill Museums chief executive Peter Fairhurst said: "This project has been 10 years and 2million in the making. Finally Bexhill has a museum that does its heritage justice."

The museum will be open to the public from July 30.