HISTORICAL figures got into character to help mark the opening of two new galleries at Reading Museum.

The Story of Reading and Welcome Gallery arrived during half-term and residents flocked to the town centre to see the exhibition.

Councillor Karen Rowland, lead member for Culture, said: "The new galleries complement the other major openings for the Reading Abbey Revealed project last year and bring the Story of Reading up to date to modern times."

Focussing on life after Reading Abbey, the first part of the Story of Reading gallery launched in February.

New features explore the town's development into modern life, including fascinating objects.

The Welcome Gallery highlights the museum's full range of objects, exploring Reading's global links throughout history.