Made in Merthyr display in Cyfarthfa Castle reopening

Made in Merthyr: Fashion from Julien Macdonald and controversial noise device, the Mosquito

A "made in Merthyr" display, including dresses by Julien Macdonald and the Mosquito high-pitch noise device, led a reopening of Cyfarthfa Castle's museum.

Artist and TV presenter Rolf Harris, whose grandfather was from Merthyr Tydfil, was special guest at the re-opening after a £320,000 refurbishment.

The five-month project includes new case displays and audio guides interpretations as well as repairs.

The revamp grant was from the Heads of the Valleys Programme.

Other items in the Made in Merthyr exhibition include dresses designed by Laura Ashley and the first steam whistle in the world.

A "Gentleman's Collections" exhibition features a range of items collected around the world by people from the town.

Museum curator, Scott Reid said: "Cyfarthfa Castle Museum is a treasure chest of items and stories about Merthyr Tydfil, which has made a remarkable contribution to the history of Wales, Britain, and indeed the world".

'Good friend'

Top brass: One of the objects in the Merthyr collection

He said the grant went towards improvements to exhibitions and "much-needed repairs".

Merthyr Tydfil mayor Councillor Clive Tovey is to officially open the refurbishment, with Harris as his guest.

The museum displays a number of paintings and photographs by the artist's grandfather, George Frederick Harris, including a portrait of his grandmother and a photograph he took of Merthyr Tydfil in 1877.

Mr Reid said: "Rolf has been a very good friend to Cyfarthfa for many years and we are absolutely delighted that he is coming along on this very special occasion!"