BRIDGWATER'S Blake Museum is looking at ways to make learning about the town's fascinating history more interactive and immersive for visitors.

The museum on Blake Street is a 16th century house, first opened as a museum in 1926, and it is said that the town's most famous citizen, Robert Blake was born in the house in 1598.

In modern times, Blake Museum is home to Bridgwater to a local museum filled with fascinating facts and exhibits on the archaeology and history of the town, whether that is about Robert Blake himself, the Battle of Sedgemoor, Bridgwater in the First and Second World Wars, findings from the Stone and Bronze Age or more recently the history of the Cellophane Factory.

Stewart Richards, chairman of the Friends of Blake Museum, says there is plenty happening behind the scenes to make 2019 an exciting year for the museum.

"We are looking at ways to make the museum more interactive and immersive. One of the ideas is to hold Living History Day, where in parts of the museum costumed characters will come to life giving visitors first-hand accounts of their experiences, such as Robert Blake telling you about life at sea," Mr Richards said.

"We also have an exciting project to restore the water mill adjoining the building which would be a fantastic addition to what we have on offer here."

Mr Richards said none of the great work the museum does would be possible without the hardworking and friendly volunteers.

"We offer quite a personal experience for visitors thanks to our knowledgeable volunteers who are on hand to greet people, answer questions and give further insight into the history and exhibits.

"Each year we hold two fairs, as well as cake sales and coffee mornings. When we are closed in the winter our volunteers help get new exhibitions ready, help with painting and maintenance, cleaning and gardening."

The Blake Museum is set to re-open on Tuesday, April 2.

To find out more about volunteering visit blakemuseumfriends.org.uk or call 01278 456127.