IT is business as usual at the Bowes museum over Easter with a series of events to attract families into Barnard Castle and Teesdale.

From now until April 22 - the duration of the school holidays - a treasure hunt in the grounds will invite visitors to test their skills in a quiz. Tickets cost 50p, and each entrant will receive a chocolate treat. "We are expecting to be busy," said Dr Anne Allen, who is in charge of marketing at the museum. "We have 1,000 chocolate rabbits and 500 cream eggs to hand out."

A new exhibition has also opened at the museum. Hidden Treasures brings together an array of paintings by distinguished and lesser known artists, including several by women artists, plus ceramics, textiles and a few curiosities from the collections including a stuffed alligator - or it may be a crocodile.

Many of the items have never been displayed before while some have recently been conserved and put back on display. A collection of precious silverware is also on view.

Sadly, one treasure will remain hidden from the public view. A gold mechanical mouse was stolen from the museum and is still in police keeping while a court case surrounding the theft continues.

"There is something for everyone, whatever the weather, so come and join us at the museum," said Dr Allen. See page 3.