Valence House Museum in Becontree, East London, has reopened its doors to the public following a multi-million pound refurbishment.

The new-look attraction was unveiled by John Davis, deputy mayor of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham (LBBD) and the British Super Featherweight boxing champion, Kevin Mitchell. Funded by the council with the help of nearly £2m from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the renovation of Valence House Museum included a new set of exhibitions to explore the history of the property.

A new building to provide a larger archive and local studies centre; the restoration of part of an original moat and improved access for people with disabilities also formed part of the scheme. The two-year refurbishment programme was carried out alongside a revamp of Eastbury Manor House in a bid to provide local residents and visitors with a chance to learn more about the area's heritage.

LBBC cabinet member for culture and sport Bert Collins said: "Both Valence House Museum and Eastbury Manor House are great heritage assets for Barking and Dagenham. There is a huge amount on offer for local residents, families and school children."