THE newly opened Rayleigh Town Museum is hoping to go from strength to strength after welcoming more than 3,000 visitors through its doors in its first three months.

After years of planning and hard work the museum officially opened to the public in April, largely thanks to dedicated chairman Mike Davies.

The museum, located on the first floor at 91 High Street, is open all year on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays between 10 am and 4pm.

Mr Davies is delighted with the museum's early success and hopes it will continue to be a popular attraction.

He said: “The first three months have been somewhat hectic, not only for the stewards settling into their new environment but also for the public visiting for the first time to a brand new visitor attraction in Rayleigh.

“Many locals have been eagerly awaiting the opening for months and a number have returned on more than one occasion as there is too much to take in during one visit.”

The museum aims to attract 10,000 visitors per year.

Mr Davies added: “It was extremely difficult to predict visitor numbers without any similar small independent museum to compare with.

“Success can also be gauged by the number of new Rayleigh artefacts that the museum has received, the numerous positive comments in our visitor books and the number of financial donations visitors make.”

Entry to the museum, full of historical artefacts of the town and exhibitions, is free to all, but there are opportunities to make donations, join the Friends group, and purchase Rayleigh related books, postcards and other items.

The chairman said the museum’s future is bright as they hope to get more artefacts for visitors and have a variety of exhibitions.

He added: “The key aspect for all our team is to present a 'quality' attraction that the town can be proud of. We have made a very sound and solid start but we must ensure our sustainability not only in the months ahead, but for years to come.

“This we will achieve by continuing to offer a range of events and exhibitions that the public, not only from Rayleigh and Rochford—but from further afield as well, want to visit. To date we have held exhibitions on the building of the museum, National Windmills weekend, Rayleigh Art Trail and the Battle of the Somme.

“Many more are planned. We also plan film shows on various aspects of Rayleigh history for example the Regal Cinema and The Rayleigh Rockets Speedway.”

When asked of how successful he thinks the museum already is as an attraction, Mr Davies said: “We like to think that our museum is already a favourite attraction, but we are working closely with the Windmill, National Trust, Holy Trinity, Dutch Cottage, and other local heritage assets to encourage visitors to come to Rayleigh for a number of reasons.

“Public awareness of the museum is key to our success and the support we have received is a significant contributory factor in our success. It is a two way relationship that can be of benefit to both parties.”

More details can be obtained by visiting www.rayleightownmuseum.co.uk or by telephoning Mike Davies on 01268 785657.