Chief Executive of the Arts Council, Alan Davey, presided over the event which saw people of all ages enjoy a specially commissioned 3D film which was projected onto the front of the Hall.

The animation, entitled Lustre, centred around the hall and its hidden secrets.

Stockton Council's Cabinet Member for Arts, Leisure and Culture, Councillor Ken Dixon, said: "Last night's event really showcased Preston Park Museum and Grounds and highlighted what a fantastic venue it is for Stockton Borough residents. The screening of the 3D Novak commissioned film was certainly a fitting and spectacular way to mark the official re-launch of the park following its £7m redevelopment. It was wonderful to see so many families joining us to celebrate in the Museum’s Diamond Jubilee year and I hope they will all return again over the coming weeks and months to see what the Museum and Grounds has to offer."

Richard Morris, Heritage Lottery Fund Trustee and Committee member, said: “It’s been fantastic to see so many people here to mark the culmination of Preston Park Museum and Ground’s two-year transformation which we were delighted to help fund and be part of. The stunning projection reflected the journey the Museum has made and explores the Borough’s rich heritage. It was an appropriate and creative way to remember the history of the hall, its people, and above all Stockton's great story as the popular attraction it will certainly be.”

Alan Davey, Chief Executive, Arts Council England, said: “It was fantastic to visit Preston Park Museum and Grounds again. Growing up in Stockton, Preston Park Museum and Grounds was one of the places where I first experienced the transformative powers of the arts and culture. Not only did I learn more about the history of where I lived, but I also realised that this was part of my identity – and still is. The Novak Collective has brilliantly illuminated the museum and its collections, and perhaps many people who viewed it will also have that same enlightenment I had here years ago – that the arts and culture can enrich, shape and transform your life.”

The Preston Park Museum and Ground’s two-year transformation was funded in partnership between the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Stockton Borough Council.

The restored Preston Park Museum now incorporates a complete redisplay of the wide and varied collection, an activity-filled Victorian Street and the development of a traditional walled kitchen garden and orchard. The attraction has welcomed more than 100,000 visitors since opening its doors last summer.

Further information

Kirsty Watt, Senior Media Relations Officer on 01642 528 804.