AN open-air museum reopens its doors today after being closed for more than a month because of foot-and-mouth.

Beamish Museum, near Stanley, County Durham, is hoping for a good start to its summer season to make up for revenue lost during the closure.

The Easter holidays are a key time for the museum, which preserves the region's industrial heritage.

Spokeswoman Jacki Winstanley said: "We are reopening with the exception of Home Farm, our stables and Pockerley Manor.

"Home Farm is a super attraction, but there are so many other attractions in the museum. How many people will come this weekend is the six billion dollar question."

Visitors will be asked to step in disinfectant bowls as they arrive and leave the museum. Disinfectant mats will be laid out for vehicles.

"Our livestock has been isolated and we are taking precautions so, hopefully, there will be no problem,'' said Ms Winstanley.

The museum is open daily until October 28, from 10am to 5pm. The last admission is at 3pm. For details call (01207) 231811.