Bexhill Museum set-back

It's now hoped the opening will take place at the end of June - four weeks later than expected.

A spokesman for the Society of Bexhill Museums confirmed that Dyson's, the company handling the exhibition side of the refurbishment such as display and gallery facilities, was unable to continue and that the work had been taken over by another company.

He said: "All the board members are disappointed, of course they are, but things are being sorted out...It is not a total disaster and the delay should not be more than four weeks - it is all being resolved."

A local trader commented: "What a great pity...We need the museum open to encourage more visitors to the town. It will be a great asset - let's hope it opens soon."

Rother District Council head of amenities Madeleine Gorman said: "While it is unfortunate the Society of Bexhill Museums is in this situation due to circumstances they could not have foreseen, and the project will fall behind schedule, we are not expecting a major long-term delay to the scheme at present.

"Our Project Managers are seeking assurances from the liquidator that the goods purchased will be provided.

"Rother District Council is committed to the regeneration of Bexhill Museum and we will continue to give the society our full support, both in terms of our financial agreement and providing legal assistance.

"The new museum is a priority task for the Council and we are happy to continue our backing for the project and work with the society to ensure its success."