Great Yarmouth's Louis Tussauds wax museum 'facing closure'

The owners said they would be open to offers for the business

A waxworks museum in Norfolk is facing closure after more than 50 years because its owners say they plan to turn the building into housing.

Jane and Peter Hayes, who run Louis Tussauds House of Wax in Great Yarmouth, said they plan to retire now they are both in their 80s.

They have submitted a planning application to the borough council.

In 2008, the museum was reported to be home to "the world's worst waxworks", but has gained a cult following.

The museum employs three full-time staff in addition to the Hayes.

'Height of fame'

Named after the great-grandson of Madame Tussaud, the Regent Road museum promotes itself as being "different", remembering "stars and famous people as they were at their height of fame".

The museum prides itself on remembering stars from their "glory days" in entertainment

Mrs Hayes said she and her husband were looking at a number of options, including closing the museum or finding new owners.

She said: "We've applied to change the building in to a residential premises so we can continue to live here as we don't want to part with the property.

"We have no definite plans yet until the council makes a decision at the end of November, but would consider a sensible offer for the business.

"I've lived in Great Yarmouth since 1954. I'd have very much liked to continue running the business, but health has determined differently."

The museum closes for the 2012 season on Monday.