Bolton Museum has welcomed back its first visitors this week as the easing of lockdown restrictions continues.
And from next week, the museum will be open from 9am to 5pm from Tuesday to Friday and 10am to 4pm on Saturdays.
Visitors can explore all the galleries, including the acclaimed Bolton’s Egypt exhibit which features thousands of ancient artefacts and climaxes with the breath-taking recreation of the tomb of Thutmose III.
Hilary Fairclough, Bolton Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for libraries and museum, said: “There is something for everyone at Bolton Museum and we look forward to welcoming back visitors of all ages.
“Every safety precaution is being taken as we gradually reopen services to the public.
“I’m sure Bolton Museum will once again attract visitors to our area as we seek to recover from the pandemic and create a vibrant and thriving town centre.”
To keep everyone safe, visitor numbers are being restricted, visits will be limited to one hour and some games and interactive displays will remain off limits.
Hand sanitising stations are being made available; a one-way system will aid social distancing while public toilets are closed.
Museum-goers will be asked to provide their contact details when entering to help with track and trace.
The museum shop will be open, and guests can ask a member of staff for help if they want to buy something.
As part of the government’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic, Bolton Museum was closed to the public on March 23 along with all library buildings.
Book browsing and public computers are now also be available at the town’s Central Library.
Opening hours are 9am to 6pm from Monday to Friday, and Saturday 10am to 4pm. Computer must be booked in advance by calling 01204 332853.
Last week, an order and collect system was introduced at Breightmet, Central, Farnworth, Harwood, Horwich, and Westhoughton libraries.
The council says it will continue to review when other services will reopen.
For more information about services reopening, visit the Bolton Library and Museum website or call 01204 332853.