THE curator of Northwich’s museum has left for pastures new in Ireland.

Matt Wheeler has been at the helm of Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse, formerly The Salt Museum, for six years.

He is now taking up the position of curator and manager at The Irish Agricultural Museum in County Wexford, Ireland.

He was presented with an ‘illuminated address’ by the Friends of Weaver Hall Museum and the Lion Salt Works on his last day.

Matt said: “I have really enjoyed my last six years at the museum but its success must be shared with my staff, the Friends groups who are very supportive, and all those local organisations I have worked with.

“The last couple of years have been a particularly exciting time.

“Our local authority has changed and the former Salt Museum is now the Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse giving it a remit as the local Museum for Northwich and mid Cheshire.

“While I will miss all those at Weaver Hall, the Lion Salt Works and Stretton Mill, I am looking forward to my new challenges in Ireland.”

During the past six years, Weaver Hall Museum has seen its visitor number increase through many innovative activities, including regular new exhibitions and coffee shop displays, afternoon teas and talks, evening events and trips to other museums.

Presenting the address, Jenny Tyson, chairman of the Friends of Weaver Hall Museum, said: “You have transformed the museum and its visitor numbers into a local attraction that everybody is proud of,” she said.

David Roberts, chairman of the Lion Salt Works Trust, said: “You have been a breath of fresh air to our team and your skills, loyalty and dedication to your job are going to be missed not only at our local museums but throughout mid Cheshire where you have worked closely with so many different organisations.

“You are going to be a hard act to follow.”