PORT Sunlight Museum is set to re-open its doors following a major revamp.

The historic village's museum has had refurbishments done to its gift shop and permanent exhibitions as well as the creation of a brand new special exhibitions gallery.

The changes are part of a five-year development plan as Port Sunlight celebrates its 125th anniversary this year and Unilever brand PG Tips have also signed up to sponsor the museum's Winter Food Festival.

And the village trust's chief executive Lionel Bolland said Port Sunlight was continuing to grow and attract more visitors.

He said: "We're in a period of real change and growth.

"The Museum makeover includes the creation of a special exhibitions gallery, improvements to the permanent exhibitions, gift shop and new visitor signage.

"Coupled with this is the exciting news of our sponsorship deal with Unilever PG Tips. I'm delighted and their support is an important development for our ambitious plans in 2013.

"Funding for our refurbishment project has come from Port Sunlight Village Trust and the Biffa Award, which awards grants to community and environmental projects across the UK.

"We are very grateful to have the support of the Biffa Award to assist the Trust in their development of the Museum."

And museum manager Katherine Lynch said the new-look museum would help to boost local tourism.

She said: "Port Sunlight Museum gives visitors a chance to discover the history of the village, its creator 'Soap King' William Hesketh Lever and his vision for the village and its residents.

"The improvements will also enable us to explore some new themes in the permanent exhibitions such as the Garden City Movement, early urban planning, the development of the village, soap making and the history of Lever Brothers Port Sunlight.

"2013 marks the 125th anniversary of the founding of Port Sunlight and these improvements are a key part of our celebration plans. I predict they and the Museum will make a significant impact on the tourism pound in Wirral this year.”