TIMES are a-changing at Newton Abbot Museum where from Tuesday July 20 booked appointments will no longer be necessary.

In line with the Government’s fresh advice on Covid-19, visitors will be able to turn up at will during opening hours although numbers inside will be limited in a bid to maintain social distancing.

Staff are also asking that masks are worn.

Curator Dr Charlotte Dixon said: ‘This is quite a moment when we can finally do away with booked visits but we are adamant that the safety of staff, volunteers and the public remains our number one priority.

‘There may be times when we’ll declare that we’re full and if that’s the case we’ll ask people to pop back a little later if they can.

‘We’re not setting exact numbers as so much depends on the type of visits we have going on at any time so please bear with us, we’re navigating uncharted waters right now.

‘The booked-visit system we’ve been running this year has been a tremendous success, not least because of the public’s support and understanding.

‘We cannot say thank-you enough to them, and to our volunteers without whom the museum simply could not have opened at all.

‘It’s been a tremendous team effort and here’s to the next shared chapter in our ever-evolving story.

‘We look forward to welcoming you and remember, admission is absolutely free!’

Newton Abbot Town and GWR Museum is located within Newton’s Place, the former St Leonard’s Church in Wolborough Street.

Bought by Newton Abbot Town Council in 2016, the listed Victorian landmark has been transformed into a new museum, community hub and base for the council.

Community rooms are available for hire with some groups and charities exempt from charges, subject to conditions.

The museum opening hours are Tuesday - Friday 9.30am - 4.30 pm and Saturdays 9.30am - 1.30pm.

For more information visit www.newtonsplace.org where you can also tune into the What’s The Story Newton Abbot radio broadcasts which capture tales from the town’s past and contributions from team members who took part in the £2.2 million transformation of St Leonard’s Church into today’s Newton’s Place.