STAFF have been hailed for improving access to one of York's top museums.

The Castle Museum was presented with an Access For All award after the judges noted the museum went "that extra mile" to ensure families, children, the elderly and people with physical and sensory impairments could all gain entry and enjoy their experience.

The award was sponsored by specialist consultancy Access Staintons.

Charlotte Dootson, the museum's marketing officer, said: "It's a great achievement to win this award. Our staff want to help people as much as they can, and we're here to make the visitors' experience as enjoyable as possible."

Visitor services manager Sue Dearing said: "A wheelchair lift has been installed which assists our disabled visitors with access to Kirkgate, the Victorian Stree.

"The staff offer explanations of the collections which are not accessible to wheelchair users by painting pictures with words.

"We also provide baby carriers to replace pushchairs, and reins for older children."

Updated: 12:19 Friday, December 07, 2001