THE Museum of Dartmoor Life is carrying out a survey to find out what residents and visitors think of the services it provides.

The aim is to find out more about why people do or do not visit the museum and to give them a chance to put forward views about what exhibitions, events and improvements they would like to see at the museum.

Visitors to the museum will get free admission throughout November and December so that local people can visit, either for the first time or to remind themselves of what it has to offer.

The survey has been designed by two of the museum's youngest volunteers, Ross Slocombe and Hannah Coe. The pair have been out and about in Okehampton trialing the survey and gaining feedback.

Ross said: 'The Museum of Dartmoor Life has huge potential as a community resource, where local people and visitors can learn about and celebrate the heritage of Okehampton and Dartmoor.

'This survey is a great opportunity for people to have a real input into the museum's plans for the next few years.'

The results of the survey will be used to inform a new Forward Plan for 2013 to 2016. This plan is a key element in the museum's application for its Arts Council accreditation to be renewed.

The museum was accredited in 2008 and the new submission is due by the end of January. Currently, there are just under 1,800 museums participating in the scheme.

Manager Andrew Thompson said: 'Accreditation shows that the museum meets national standards. It is a complex process covering all aspects of our work.

'But it is an exciting chance to review what we do and plan the next phase of the museum's development.'

Paper copies can be collected from the museum reception. The consultation runs until Saturday, December 1.