Dorchester's Keep Museum has reopened in time for children to visit for free in the half term holiday.

The museum of the regiments of Devonshire and Dorset tells the story of Dorset in wartime and boasts a panoramic view of the town from its roof.

It has been closed for refurbishment and Curator Laura Jayne Gardner, pictured (left) with Keep museum volunteers Susan and Eddie Ellis who helped spruce up the reception area, says it's the ideal time to pay the museum a visit:

"We have four floors packed with artifacts and extra ordinary stories. We've had some great feedback from our recently opened WWII gallery which is showing a number of films telling some heroic and moving stories and we're looking ahead to the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day in May. We'd love to hear from anyone who has a family story to tell from that time."

"We have recently acquired another new item - a purse presented to Dorset woman Martha Ross by the Duke of Cumberland for her nursing role during the Battle of Fontenoy in 1745."

Children can visit for free during the half term holidays provided they are accompanied by an adult and buying an entry ticket entitles visitors to return for free for 12 months.

Winter opening hours are 10am-4.30pm Tuesday-Friday with days and hours extended from the end of March.

More information can be found at keepmilitarymuseum.org