Preston Hall Museum in Stockton-on-Tees, north east England, has shut until next summer in order to undergo the final phase of an extensive £7m refurbishment programme.

Stockton Council is carrying out the work, which is to include the restoration of the hall and improvements to the Grade II-listed building, as well as an upgrade of the Victorian Street.

Funding worth £3.58m has been awarded by the Heritage Lottery Fund towards the project, which will also include the recreation of the original walled garden and orchard.

The Green Museums Programme - run by Renaissance North East - has also contributed a £5,000 grant towards the acquisition of LED lighting for the heritage attraction.

Stockton Council cabinet member for arts, leisure and culture Ken Dixon said: "While I am sure many people will be disappointed the Museum will be shut for a while, it is necessary to carry out the final stages of this exciting redevelopment of the Grade II listed building."

Renaissance North East's Sarah Carr added: "The aim of the [Green Museums Programme] is to increase levels of environmental sustainability across museums in the region and this project is just one example of the work we are supporting."

Details: www.stockton.gov.uk