A popular museum has reopened after a £2.3 million facelift to showcase the work of artists drawn to Ditchling.

The Ditchling Museum of Art and Craft is the last link in the “string of pearls” – an array of arts developments along the south coast – and boasts work dating back to the early 20th century.

But with only a Portakabin to provide the necessary offices and facilities, the museum began to lose its quaint charm and look unfit to house such treasures.

So thanks to further local generosity and a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, just under £2.5 million was raised for a root-and-branch renovation and modest expansion.

The project was partly funded by a £1.4m Heritage Lottery Fund grant and the work involved linking the old village school with a farmer’s lodge.

The museum was founded by sisters Hilary and Joanna Bourne in 1984, and was originally housed in the former Ditchling Village School and schoolmaster’s cottage, dating back to 1838.

Artists represented include Eric Gill, David Jones, Edward Johnston and Ethel Mairet.

See The Guide on Friday for a behind-the-scenes look at The Ditchling Museum of Art and Craft.