The new director of a popular Dorset museum has said the need for museums is "greater than ever", as she prepares to safely reopen the attraction to the public.

Shire Hall Historic Courthouse Museum in Dorchester will be reopened by new museum director Abbie King on Monday, August 3 after closing in March due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Taking over from Anna Bright, Mrs King started her role as director in March, just as the coronavirus crisis took hold.

Stepping up to the role from her previous position as assistant director at Shire Hall, Mrs King said: "I am delighted and honoured to have been appointed director of Shire Hall. I am looking forward to working with the board, the team, the museum’s partners and the people of Dorchester, to further establish Shire Hall as an integral part of Dorchester’s community. It’s already been a delight to see Shire Hall flourish in its first two years and it is a huge privilege to lead the museum into its next phase.

"After the last few months the need for museums and community spaces is now greater than ever. The way we live, work, gather, communicate, share, learn and play is changing."

Mrs King is from Weymouth and has over 20 years experience in museums and tourism. She has previously held managerial roles at the Lulworth Estate, the Tank Museum in Bovington and Weymouth Pavilion. She is also a fellow of the Museums and Resilient Leadership programme.

An award-winning 'living' museum, Shire Hall is famous as the courtroom in which the Tolpuddle Martyrs were trialled and sentenced to transportation to Australia in 1824. The museum uses real-life stories and iPad guides to let visitors walk in the footsteps of those whose lives were changed or even ended by their experiences there.

David Clarke, chairman of the Shire Hall Dorchester Trust, said: "I am delighted to welcome Abbie King as our new Director. It is unfortunate for Abbie that the timing of her appointment coincides with us all having to face the challenges for all business brought about by the effect of the Covid-19 virus and the enforced closure of the museum in March. However, despite facing a baptism of fire, Abbie's extensive experience and commitment has already ensured the retention of the staff, the continued safety of the Grade 1 listed museum building, and the retention of the Trust’s financial reserves together with the preparation of our plans for the safe reopening of the museum to the public."