Derby's Silk Mill museum mothballed for two years

The council said it would reopen the museum as soon as possible

A Derby museum has closed its doors for two years as part of measures to cut costs.

The Silk Mill, which tells the story of the area's industrial past, costs about £200,000 a year to run.

About 500 people visited on its last day, with some campaigners calling for the decision to be reviewed.

Conservative-led Derby City Council, which is looking to save £25m over the next three years, said the museum cash would be reinvested in other services.

Campaigners Adam Kleczek said: "Heritage is something important to us all, even if it is not profitable.

"It is important because it marks who we are, and why the city is important."

Stuart Gillis, the council's head of museums, said: "We appreciate that a number of people are sceptical about the mothballing but we want to assure the public that we will do everything we can, and engage local people in reopening the Silk Mill as quickly as possible."