MUSEUM chiefs have announced extended opening hours as part of a cultural landmark's 150th anniversary year.

Bosses at Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery have confirmed the additional time to browse will be rolled out from April 2.

The museum, which has recently benefitted from major roof repairs, will then open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 11am to 4.45pm.

Cllr Quesir Mahmood, the borough's deputy leader and executive member for growth and development, said: "The museum is one of three national portfolio organisations in our borough, I am delighted the museum and art gallery will now open on Tuesdays, and an extra hour a day also.

"It’s such a hidden gem in our town yet at the same time immensely valued.

"Extensive renovations are now nearing completion and it’s a really exciting time to visit with lots planned for its big birthday in June."

Council officials says the extended hours have been made possible through funding from Arts Council England as a National Portfolio Organisation.

Free artist and family activities are planned throughout April, and there is the popular Art Open exhibition, running until April 13.

Artist Alexandra Gallagher also collaborated with the museum to create limited edition posters and postcards of beautiful prints of iconic landmarks across the borough. All proceeds will be donated back to the museum to help stock their gift shop. These can be ordered via her website: https://www.alexandragallagherart.com/blackburn-prints

The museum and art gallery opened in 1874, along with Blackburn Free Library, which moved to |Town Hall Street in the 1970s.

A council spokesman added: "Today visitors can enjoy an impressive collection of important art, a fascinating Egyptian gallery and a wealth of items relating to social and natural history.

"It’s also a key venue for the National Festival of Making, the British Textile Biennial and popular events, including Night at the Museum."

The venue is also home to the celebrated Hart Collection of historic manuscripts and coins, left to the town by rope maker and philanthropist Robert Edward Hart.