A TOURIST attraction in Bromyard that reflects Herefordshire's historic connection to hops will open its doors to the public five days a week thanks to a new £20,000-plus grant.

Bromyard Heritage Centre will undergo a facelift in time for the summer season after Herefordshire Council secured £21,752 from the Bromyard Area Regeneration Partnership (BARP).

The money will be used to employ a full-time heritage centre assistant for six months as well as to refurbish displays and presentations.

The council says that a feasibility study will also be conducted to investigate the future use of the heritage centre.

Lara Latcham, Herefordshire Heritage's visitor services officer, said: "We're very pleased. Heritage Services feel very strongly that the centre is important and that its future should be carefully thought about and planned for.

Important

"It houses a unique and important display about hops and hop-picking in Herefordshire.

"The displays in the centre are in need of renovation and extension and the funding will put a member of staff in place for six months who will be able to make these changes.

"Having a member of staff in the centre, previously manned through the generously given time of volunteers, will enable the site to offer more access to visitors and to serve the community better."

For more information contact Heritage Services on 01432-260692, herefordmuseums@ Herefordshire.gov.uk or go to www.herefordshire.gov.uk