A VICTORIAN Tea Party held on Friday, 4 August to raise money for the expansion of Trowbridge Museum was a huge success.

Volunteers were dressed in Victorian clothing serving cream teas to 65 guests at the sunny and pleasant surroundings of Trowbridge’s Sensory Garden.

Children also had fun dressing up in Victorian costumes and playing traditional games like cup and ball, connecting to the heritage.

Museum curator Clare Lyall said “It was a lovely setting and we were very lucky with the weather.

“It was very successful and we are really pleased.

“We raised about £200, but it wasn’t just for the money, it was also to raise the profile of the project.”

The aim of the tea party was to give a taster of what is to come if the expansion goes ahead, as themed catering events will take place.

The museum is in the process of securing major funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund to complete the expansion.

The top floor of the museum, which boasts an amazing view of the old textile buildings, should open in 2019.

Ms Lyall said “It is going to be a game changer.

“It will have a fantastic temporary exhibition space, a learning and outreach space, a purpose built room to accommodate schools, and a fantastic meeting space with amazing views across Trowbridge.”

The museum received £100,000 back in 2015.

Funding applications were sent in May this year, and a decision is expected to be made next month.