A World War One military aviation museum based in the Dengie has received national recognition for staff and volunteer's hard work in looking after its popular collections.

Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, on Hackmans Lane, has been awarded national museum accreditation by Arts Council England to recognise it is managed to the UK industry standard.

The accreditation will make it easier for the museum to get funding as it shows it is being properly governed, as well as providing access to professional advice and support.

Ian Flint, CEO of Stow Maries, said: "This is a wonderful endorsement of all of the hard work of the museum team. We're so grateful.

"It's a great step forward in our journey to make our much-loved project part of the national heritage landscape."

Stow Maries houses Europe's largest collection of Royal Corps World War One buildings that were not adapted for further military use later in its history.

The recognition from Arts Council England recognises staff and volunteers are taking proper care of the museum's collections, sharing them with visitors and preserving the buildings for future generations.

Accreditation covers a range of museums - from those that are small and volunteer-run to national museums - and more than 1,700 museums are currently taking part in the scheme in the UK.

Liz Johnson, director of museums and cultural property at Arts Council England, said: "We're delighted that Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome 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."

You can find the museum on Hackmans Lane in Purleigh, Maldon.

It is open to the public from 10am to 4pm on Fridays to Sundays.

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