DAWLISH Museum is celebrating achieving recognition by reaching the national benchmark of quality.

Home of Piper Bill Millin’s famous D-Day bagpipes, the volunteer-run museum has announced it has achieved accreditation status. 

Administered by Arts Council England on behalf of the UK Accreditation Partnership, accreditation is the standard for well-run museums and galleries.

The museum, which  receives no Government funding, boasts  11 galleries over three floors and houses a vast collection of artefacts.  

It first achieved full accreditation in 2009 and its continued success is due to the dedication and hard work of all its volunteers.

Accreditation status is a verification that Dawlish Museum is properly managed and governed to meet the nationally agreed industry standard and shows the museum takes proper care of its collections, sharing them with visitors and keeping them safe for future generations. 

Accreditation opens up funding opportunities, allows museums to host touring exhibitions and gives access to professional advice and support.

It also gives confidence to donors and sponsors who may wish to support the museum in preserving heritage and inspiring future generations.

Liz Johnson, director museums and cultural property at Arts Council England said: ‘We’re delighted that Dawlish Museum Society has been successful in gaining their Accreditation status. 

‘This means that their Collections will be looked after and maintained offering inspiration, enjoyment and learning for the local community and visitors to enjoy now and in the future.’