A NEW interactive display telling the story of a famous Devon battle from the Civil War held more than 350 years ago is being unveiled at the Museum of Dartmoor Life in Okehampton tomorrow (Friday).

The 1643 Civil War battle at Sourton Down was a David and Goliath night-time clash with around 3,500 footmen and 600 horses for the Royalists and 1,000 footmen and 108 horses for the Parliamentarians.

The Parliamentarians won, with the Royalists losing 60 men and large quantities of equipment.

The exhibition, which has been funded through grants by West Devon Borough Council and Renaissance in the Regions, opens to the public at 2pm.

Museum curator Maurie Webber said: 'This is a battle that has gone largely unnoticed and yet it was on our own doorstep and this is the perfect opportunity to tell the story and recognise what happened.

'We're very grateful to West Devon Borough Council and Renaissance in the Regions for their support.'

The museum is also celebrating its full museum accreditation award.

The Museums Libraries Archives Council sets nationally agreed standards for all UK museums. To meet the requirements of the award scheme, museums must demonstrate that they achieve clearly defined standards. The Museum of Dartmoor Life is delighted with the accreditation achievement.

The museum is open from Monday to Friday 10.15am to 4pm and Saturday 10.15am to 3.30pm. Telephone 01837 52295 for more information.