THE firing of muskets signalled the opening of Teignmouth's new look £1.1million museum.

In the first four days, more than 500 people passed through the doors of the museum, which has been extensively renovated thanks to Lottery and government funding and additional donations from local trusts and sponsors, including Teignmouth's twin town of Perros-Guirec.

The refurbished building has taken ten years to complete with the museum committee contributing £120,000 to the cost from their own fundraising and sponsorship.

Now known as the Teign Heritage Centre, the first weekend of this season's opening featured a host of entertainment and activities including art classes, mosaic making and music from a choir.

The living history group also saw volunteers dressed in 1880s costumes firing muskets from the roof of the museum to herald the opening.

Ian Blackwell, director of the Teign Heritage Centre, was delighted with the response.

He said: 'It has been excellent. We have been busy every day and have organised family activities to coincide with half term.'

The museum, which is modelled on a lighthouse, is home to about 10,000 exhibits, some dating back 2,000 years to the Bronze Age.

More up-to-date features include rock superstars Muse, the 1960s visit by the Beatles and the Norman Wisdom film Press For Time which was filmed in the town and surrounding area.

More events are planned for tomorrow, with the Salty Singers providing entertainment by singing sea shanties.

The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday between 10am and 5pm and on Sundays from noon until 5pm, entry is free for children and £2 for adults.