Ryedale Folk Museum is riding high thanks to a number of initiatives to boost visitor numbers and strengthen links with the community.

"We have set about improving the visitor experience, in particular looking at increasing awareness of environmental issues through our cornfield project and our nature trail as well offering more of our traditional demonstrations," said manager Mike Benson.

What is more, the museum has just begun a £500,000 project building a new art gallery, education block, workshop and museum store, and for the first time it is opening all year round.

In a recent audit it was congratulated for its access for disabled people, and it strives to be as accessible as possible to as many people as possible.

"We have made great efforts to work with sections of our communities that cannot or traditionally do not visit the museum," said Mike.

"Working with Malton Hospital, we have seven windows in the new ward for exhibiting work which will be changed quarterly, and museum staff also visit older people who are unable to visit to do reminiscing sessions."

A programme of work with young offenders has also been introduced, which Mike says is going very well, and funding for a new website called Young Guns From Ryedale has also been secured.

"In general the museum is buzzing," said Mike. "We are already planning for next year and beyond."

In September, the museum will start working with Ryedale School to make an animated film on local folklore, and a partnership with the charity Ryedale Special Families is also in the pipeline.

Mike added: "With the support of museum staff, our super volunteers and our wider community we will continue to make a positive impact on the lives of Ryedale folk."

Ryedale Folk Museum has entered the category of Best Tourist Attraction in the Gazette & Herald Business Awards.

Updated: 16:30 Wednesday, August 10, 2005