Museum wins place in guide

THE River and Rowing Museum in Henley is one of only four Oxfordshire attractions to win a place in a guide to the best visitor attractions for disabled people.

The museum, which was built 10 years ago, was designed to be fully accessible to all visitors but improvements have been made, including automatic electronic doors and programmes designed specifically for disabled people.

The Rivertime Boat Trust, which operates from the museum’s jetty, uses a specially constructed boat which can carry 12 people and is fitted with a wheelchair ramp and hydraulic lift for the disabled.

The museum also hosts Breaking Barriers, a project involving adults with sensory, physical and learning disabilities to develop new ways of learning.

It is also working with organisations including the Reading Association for the Blind and the Learning Disabilities Group in Henley to improve access, understanding and enjoyment of the galleries.

Chief executive Paul Mainds was "delighted" to be included in the Rough Guide To Accessible Britain.

He said: "It’s a great compliment, not only to our building but to our staff and the programmes we run.