We should all cheer the news that children are to enjoy free entry into our national museums again. A whole generation has grown up believing that visiting museums is a privilege, not a right. It is time to change that perception.

Admission charges were brought in by the last government, which knew the price of everything but the value of nothing. Museums were no longer viewed as a shared national resource. Instead they were perceived to be a drain on the public purse.

The result was predictable and saddening. Attendance at museums slumped. Some people resented paying to see exhibits their taxes had paid to preserve. Many more simply could not afford it.

Children were the greatest losers from this poll tax on history. When admission was free, family days out would automatically include a tour of a museum. It was an entertaining, educational and economic way to spend an hour or two.

Now a family of four would expect to pay around £20. That takes a big bite out of a tight budget. The debate about entry charges revolves around what we believe is the purpose of museums. If they are just another leisure attraction, then let them compete for our time and money with Flamingoland and McDonalds.

But we believe that museums are a vital part of our cultural identity. Everyone deserves equal access to our common heritage.

The present Government recognises this. Last year Culture Secretary Chris Smith announced his intention to phase in free admission at certain national museums. And that process is beginning.

Children will be allowed free entry into the National Railway Museum in York, and into all other national museums and galleries, this Easter.

This move will make the family tour more affordable at a stroke. And if Mr Smith is able to deliver his promise in full, everyone will enjoy free admission within three years.

The demand is certainly there.

This week sees the eagerly-awaited opening of The World of James Herriot in Thirsk. So many visitors are expected that local people are being asked to stay away.

It is a shame that the very characters who peopled Herriot's books may be the last to see the museum inspired by them. Hopefully many were able to take part in one of the preview tours.

Those unable to get in to Alf Wight's renovated surgery now have an alternative, of course. Bring your children to the National Railway Museum - for free.

see NEWS 'Musuem idea is just the (free) ticket'

see NEWS 'Herriot centre asks locals to stay away'

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