Dorset Natural History and Archaeological Society has appointed Claire Dixon as the new executive director of Dorset Museum in Dorchester.

Claire is currently director of museums and deputy chief executive at Bath Preservation Trust and will take up her new post in Dorchester in July.

Claire brings with her a wealth of experience having spent over 15 years in the cultural sector.

At Bath Preservation Trust, as director of museums she oversees four museum sites, including the internationally-renowned No.1 Royal Crescent, the Museum of Bath Architecture, Herschel's Museum of Astronomy, and Beckford's Tower and Museum.

She also brings a strong background in visitor experience, coupled with extremely useful regional knowledge having worked for the National Trust at both Kingston Lacy and Brownsea Island, and also a stint at the Tank Museum in Bovington.

Jean Lang DL, chair of Dorset Museum board of trustees, said: "We are looking forward to welcoming Claire Dixon to our team in July. She impressed us with her knowledge and background in the cultural sector and brings the skills and experience we need to drive forward Dorset Museum and Society in these challenging times.

"The combination of her museum credentials and visitor experience roles position her well to make the most of Dorset Museum's £16.4 million redevelopment, which saw us open a fantastic new resource for residents and visitors across the South West in May 2021, telling Dorset's stories in bigger and bolder ways."

Claire added: "I am delighted to take on this role at Dorset Museum. I know the area well and I am excited about the opportunities the redevelopment provides to grow our presence as a significant regional museum.

"I am looking forward to working with the museum team to deliver a programme of contemporary and relevant exhibitions and events that will broaden our audiences by connecting them with the engaging, diverse and important narratives that this county has to offer."

Ms Lang continued: "I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Elizabeth Selby, who has been interim executive director at the museum since last January.

"Not only did she play a really significant part in the redevelopment in her role as director of collections and public engagement, but she has also skilfully steered us through the last year with her passion and commitment to the work of the museum and society.

"On behalf of all the trustees, I thank her for her work and we are all truly grateful for her continuing contribution."