GLASSES have been raised at Stourbridge Glass Museum which has now been given accreditation status which could open up new funding opportunities.

Administered by Arts Council England, on behalf of the UK Accreditation Partnership, accreditation is the benchmark for well-run museums and galleries across the country.

The new status means the museum in Camp Hill, Wordsley, is properly managed and governed to the nationally agreed industry standard. It also shows the museum takes proper care of its collections, sharing them with visitors and keeping them safe for future generations.

Accreditation, which covers venues from the smallest volunteer-run museums to national museums, opens up further funding opportunities, allows museums to host touring exhibitions and gives access to professional advice and support. It also gives confidence to donors and sponsors who may wish to support the museum in preserving heritage and inspiring future generations.

Liz Johnson, director - museums and cultural property at Arts Council England, said: "We’re delighted Stourbridge Glass Museum has been successful in gaining accreditation status.

“This means 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.”

Stourbridge Glass Museum manager Alexander Goodger MA said of the news: “We are over the moon that over a decade of hard work and dedication by the British Glass Foundation, twinned with the culture of support and teamwork fostered between staff, trustees and volunteers, has culminated in our museum achieving its accreditation.

“It is a fantastic place to work and volunteer, and a privilege to develop an internationally celebrated glass collection right here in Stourbridge.”

Graham Knowles chairman of the British Glass Foundation – the charity behind the museum, added: ‘This is a great day for Stourbridge in reinforcing its position as a centre of excellence for glass and glassmaking.”

Councillor Adam Davies, ward councillor for the Audnam area of Wordsley where the musuem is located, said it was "fantastic" to see the museum gain full accreditation status and he added: "The efforts of the British Glass Foundation, the trustees, museum staff and volunteers have ensured that the museum keeps going from strength to strength - helping to preserve and promote our areas proud glassmaking heritage.

"This accreditation is a well-deserved testament to all of their dedication, vision and hard work."