Sophie Bull and Helen Horler have been appointed new joint managers for Bridport Museum.

They take on the role as a partnership from former director, Emily Hicks, who left earlier this year.

Both Helen and Sophie are already familiar with many of the museum team. Sophie was Bridport Museum Trust's volunteer manager and Helen has provided consultancy services during the last five years.

Together, they combine more than 40 years of experience in museums and heritage and are passionate about creative programming and supporting organisations to thrive.

Sophie moved back to her childhood home of Bridport four years ago and began work for the National Trust, leading the delivery of creative projects with new audiences.

Previously, Sophie worked with several museum and heritage sites, including the British Museum, The Bishops Palace in Wells and South West Heritage Trust.

She said: "I am delighted to work with Helen, she brings a strong track record in developing learning and interpretation for museums.

"We are so lucky to have an existing team of more than 60 committed volunteers and trustees who bring their skills, knowledge, and time to make the museum and local history centre what they are today.

"I would love to continue to grow this family of volunteers.'

Also a consultant for museums and heritage, Helen has served as a volunteer assessor for the Sandford Award for Heritage Education Trust and is the former learning and community manager at the Bishop's Palace in Wells.

"Prior to working at the Palace, she worked for English Heritage in a regional role and for independent museum, Brunel's SS Great Britain.

Helen said: "I am thrilled to be joining Sophie in this new role as joint museum manager. Sophie's strengths in audience development will build even deeper links with the community.

"Bridport is a vibrant town with a superb community museum. We are privileged to have the opportunity to work with a diverse collection uncovering and sharing new Bridport stories.

"Even the shop is filled with handmade wonders that our volunteers have created to support the stories of making and industry in the town."

This year marks the museum's 90th anniversary. Bridport Art Gallery and Museum, as it was then called, first opened to the public in 1932.

Professor Karen Hunt, chair of Bridport Museum Trust, commented: "We are excited that Sophie and Helen are joining the trust and their partnership will be a crucial part of this next chapter for Bridport Museum and the Local History Centre.

"We all look forward to its next stage uncovering hidden treasures from the stores and creating stimulating visitor experiences for our communities for the next 90 years."

Bridport Museum is seeking to expand its team of volunteers and welcomes enquires about its variety of volunteer roles, so if you are interested to hear more, email [email protected], visit www.bridportmuseum.co.uk or call 01308 458703

The museum is offering unlimited visits for a year for just £5 for an adult pass with free entrance for carers and people under 21.