A new restaurant and conference facility is taking shape at a countryside museum.

Amberley Working Museum, which specialises in conserving England's industrial history, is spending £200,000 to pay for the building, near Arundel.

But the fund-raisers still need a further £100,000 to install furniture and fittings in the building, which is expected to open on Wednesday March 12.

A spokesman said: "The limitations of our present catering facilities hamper our development.

"Our cafe is too small to accommodate a coach party under cover, or indeed our general visitors on our busiest days.

"It has neither the size nor facilities to be suitable for hire as a meeting or conference venue so cannot be used to generate income out of season.

"The structure itself is also at the end of its economic life.

"Following a thorough planning and design process, a scheme was drawn up for a new building in a traditional style that would be sympathetic to its surroundings and indeed enhance them.

"Similar in appearance to a Sussex barn, it features a timber frame, cedar cladding to the walls, with ample glazing and a roof of hand-made clay tiles.

"The dining area can accommodate 96 people, or at least 120 for lectures and seminars. Services include a kitchen, capable of catering for major functions, with generous store areas and toilet facilities.

"The new building will produce increased income estimated at 150 per cent from additional capacity in the restaurant, with the capability to accommodate large visitor groups and coach parties.

"Thanks to the generosity of friends and supporters, £200,000 has been raised to pay for the building.

"Construction of this is now well advanced and will be completed this month.

"However, an additional £100,000 is needed for furnishing and fitting out before it can start to fulfil its potential.

"Extensive and continuous fund-raising is being conducted by the museum, under the chairmanship of the Duke of Richmond and the Friends of the Museum."