Hove Museum and Art Gallery reopens next month following major redevelopment.

Collections of contemporary craft, toys, film, local history and paintings have all been transformed in addition to the three new galleries for temporary exhibitions.

In the film section the little-known role of Hove pioneers is explored. Visitors can learn how film was first discovered through a range of working optical toys, magic lanterns and cameras.

The work of figures such as George Albert Smith and James Williamson, who were at the forefront of the international race to capture the moving image on film in the 1890s and 1900s is seen here.

The history of cinemas in Brighton and Hove is well documented through individual accounts.

Individual stories include that of a young boy caught trying to sneak into a cinema when he got his foot stuck in a toilet after climbing through a back window.

Reminiscences of courting couples whose romances blossomed in the back row are remembered, too, bringing to life early cinema history.

The toy collection here is one of the largest and most important in Britain. It includes wax portrait dolls made by Pierotti - whose pioneering doll-making skills were brought to London in the 19th Century - and dolls belonging to the Royal Family.

An interactive toy gallery which is aimed at families and children has taken on the theme of the Wizard's Attic.

The Museum's Wizard, named Emous V Hume, has travelled around the world to collect the best toys, which he then displays in his attic.

The local history section displays The Hove Amber Cup, dated 1,500BC, which is considered to be one of Britain's most significant Bronze Age finds.

The Cup was uncovered in 1856 when a burial mound was excavated during the construction of Palmeira Avenue. Made from amber derived from northern Europe, it suggests early trade links between England and the Baltic.

The burial mound may have been for an important chief. Other periods and locations are featured, such as the medieval village at Hangleton.

Anyone with an interest in history and their immediate surroundings will find much to fascinate them here.

The museum is sure to become a Sussex treasure.

The museum reopens Feb 4 (Tue-Sat, 10am until 5pm, Sun 2pm until 5pm, closed Mons). Tel 01273 290200.