Local MP, Colin Breed, has welcomed a grant of £175,000 to fund the creation of Liskeard Heritage centre.

The award has been greeted with great enthusiasm by the town council, as it will act as a catalyst for other grants to be be released.

The money came from the Heritage Lottery fund, which aims to support projects that conserve national and local heritage, and improve access to it.

The money will go towards restoring Foresters Hall, a grade 11 listed building. This restoration project will allow the town museum to expand, and will make room for the creation of a Tourist Information Office. The scheme is expected to raise the profile of the museum and enhance the area.

Other grants are due to come from Caradon district council, the Rural Development Council, the single regeneration budget and Europe.

Mr Breed said: 'I am delighted that this fine example of Victorian Gothic revival style architecture will be restored to its former glory. Liskeard Heritage centre is a very deserving recipient of this substantial award. The restoration of Foresters Hall will improve access to the exhibits in the town museum, by solving the problem of lack of space currently faced in the Public Hall, and provide a much needed Tourist Information Office.'

The grant was applied for in March, and it is hoped the announcement will mean that work will be able to start on Foresters Hall in the New Year.