A FAMILY attraction based in Somerset has been awarded gold at a ceremony celebrating excellence in the visitor attraction sector.

Haynes Motor Museum, based in Yeovil, participated in the Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme, with assessors from Visit England evaluating various criteria such as arrival experience, cleanliness, retail, and staff service.

The museum achieved an impressive 95 per cent quality score from Visit England, earning the gold accolade for overall excellence.

The Somerset attraction has brought in many visitors, not just from the county, but from all over the country.

This includes TV petrolhead, Richard Hammond, who opened up an exhibition at the Haynes Motor Museum earlier this year.

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The exhibition, opened by Hammond, features iconic TV cars including ‘Oliver’ the 1962 Opel Kadett driven by Richard in the Top Gear Botswana Special.

Other cars featured include a 1998 Mazda Mx-5 Mk2 owned by presenter Mike Fernie, a Buick Riviera from The Grand Tour: Lochdown episode, a Chevrolet SSR from the Eurocrash episode, and Richard Hammond’s own 1968 ‘Bullitt’ Ford Mustang.

Chris Scudds, Chief Executive Officer at Haynes Motor Museum, said: “I’m extremely proud of our dedicated staff and volunteers who work tirelessly year-round.

"Participating in the Visit England assessment scheme helps us maintain our high standards, and this gold accolade showcases our commitment to delivering first class experiences."

The museum brings history to life through its collection of cars, motorcycles and small objects. Housed within 15 exhibition spaces, the Museum showcases more than 300 vehicles and automotive memorabilia.

Visit England Director, Andrew Stokes added: "These accolades highlight the wonderful visitor experiences provided by English attractions, from the warmest of welcomes to amazing food and drink, from great storytelling to outstanding customer service."