Mining museum receives £700k funding boost

Wheal Martyn is the UK's only China clay mining museum

A museum in Cornwall has been awarded £707,200 of government funding.

Wheal Martyn in St Austell is the UK's only China clay mining museum and its Victorian clay works are recognised as a Scheduled Ancient Monument.

The Museum Estate and Development Fund (MEND) is part of the government's plan to support local economies, allowing them to grow.

According to Arts Council England, the money received by the museum from the fund will be used to repair the asbestos roof of a pre-1907 extension to the Pan Kiln & Linhay building.

Phil Gibby, area director of South West for Arts Council England, said: "We're thrilled to announce a £4.5m funding boost for museums across the South West.

"Museums are more than just buildings - they hold a mirror to the world, allowing us to reflect on our individual and collective experiences."

He added: "By investing in essential repairs now, we're not only safeguarding our cultural heritage but also ensuring greater public access to these treasures for years to come."