Eureka!, the national children's museum based in Halifax, Yorkshire, has appointed a director for its planned second site in London.

Simone Crofton, the former chief executive of London's Borough Market, has been tasked with leading the development of a Eureka! in the capital.

Crofton will lead the project development in terms of concept and content planning, working with existing members of the Eureka! management on the attraction.

She will also be responsible for developing a business plan and designing a campaign to secure the funds required to open the museum.

Leigh-Anne Stradeski, chief executive of Eureka!, said: "A priority for Simone will be to increase awareness of the positive contribution Eureka! can make in improving the lives of children from all backgrounds.

"Our experience and continued success in Halifax will help establish and build momentum for the concept of a major children's museum in the capital."

Although in its early stages, Eureka! London is envisioned as a large scale, readily accessible children's museum based in the capital's centre.

David Jackson, chair of Eureka!, said: "Establishing Eureka! London is part of our vision to make these extraordinary opportunities for play and learning available to children throughout the UK."