A NEW gallery dedicated to the Devonshire and Dorset Regiment since 1958 has opened at The Keep military museum in Dorchester.

The new feature tells the history of the Devon and Dorset from 1958 until 2007 when it merged into a new regiment - The Rifles.

Museum curator Charles Cooper said: "I'm delighted with it. We've been able to put exhibits on show that we haven't been able to before.

"This new gallery continues the story of the regiment to modern times and is relevant today with displays on Iraq and Afghanistan and the modern Army that is in the news. To create this gallery we have also refurbished other galleries so there are many new things to see throughout the museum.

"The new gallery's displays are supported by DVD and videos for visitors to watch.

"We're very pleased with how it has all worked out. We're sure visitors will like it.

"It involved making some changes to the building including moving a wall back."

He said the project to create the gallery on the third floor of the historic building has taken about six months. It has been carried out with the help of a Heritage Lottery Award of £49,000.

The gallery will be formally opened later this year but the public can visit the gallery while it awaits its finishing touches.

The gallery has displays dedicated to the Cold War, Northern Ireland, the Territorials and Cadets, the United Nations in Bosnia and the ceremonial side of regimental life.

It also has a hands-on weapons feature for children to try and the setting is enhanced by Army colours and the use of netting and sandbags.

The museum now has plans to refurbish the area dedicated to the Queen's Own Dorset Yeomanry on the second floor of the building.

Several new items have been donated to the collection recently including a set of medals belonging to Major General E C Alexander who was commissioned in 1895 and who fought with the then Dorset Regiment at the Tirah campaign and served in the First World War.

The medals have been framed and are now on show.

The museum will be open on Sunday, June 29 as part of the Veterans Day celebrations being held in Dorchester. Admission to the museum will be free from 1pm.