There were fears that Berwick Museum would be closed under cost-cutting moves by the local council.

Berwick Borough Council say it is expensive to run on its current site, and this would save �150,000 a year in the long term.

There will now be a three-month public consultation on its future, a move welcomed by local historians.

'Extremely difficult'

The museum tells the story of Berwick though the ages, and features a collection of art and pottery given by Sir William Burrell.

John Stephenson, leader of Berwick Borough Council, said: "We are in an extremely difficult budgetary situation and haven't got many options on how we can save money.

"We employed consultants who sought the view of the public and gave them 23 options.

"Community safety rated very highly, as did concessionary fares and toilets. The museum came out lowest of all."

He added that if it were taken over by a charity it could be eligible for Heritage Lottery Funding.

At a meeting on Thursday night, councillors voted for a public consultation.

Alison Cowe, from Berwick's civic society, said: "We are delighted that the council voted to consider the future of the museum rather than its closure.

"We will be taking a very full part, and urging our members to take a part, in the consultation."