The Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM) in Exeter is to reopen on 15 December following the completion of a £24m redevelopment of the attraction.

The building is one of Britain's largest regional museums and the works are the first major development since its foundation in 1868.

As part of the refurbishment, late 20th century fittings and additions were stripped out uncovering original architectural features and revealing the splendour of the original Victorian spaces.

A new exhibition gallery has also been added, as has a modern entrance from Rougemont Gardens with special access onto the city wall.

The extended space will allow RAMM to bring to the South West significant loans and exhibitions from national partners.

The works have been funded mainly by Exeter City Council, supported by a £9.5m grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

RAMM attracts around 250,000 visitors each year.