OAKWELL Hall in Birstall is due to reopen next month as work on a £190,000 refurbishment of the building comes to an end.

Over the last few months the Grade I listed building has been closed for a number of structural and electrical improvements.

The hall has been completely rewired to bring it up to modern standards so it meets current building regulations. The electrical works also include installing 17th century-style period lighting and lighting effects.

Other works include the conservation of ceiling timbers in the old kitchen and the restoration of the Great Hall chimney.

The restoration has seen contractors delve into the very fabric of the building, and they have uncovered a few surprises along the way.

When the floorboards in the porch chamber were lifted they revealed coins including a George III penny and farthing, buttons, fragments of a clay pipe and a toothbrush.

The museum staff were also surprised to find an old doorway that had previously linked the old kitchen to the bottom of the servants’ staircase.

Councillor Graham Turner, cabinet member for resources, said: "As well as preparing the museum for the future and protecting and enhancing the Grade I listed status of Oakwell, the work taking place has unearthed some fascinating bits of history as well.

"Things lost beneath the floorboards by long gone guests or residents are always fascinating and help bring the history to life as you imagine what was happening when they ended up there.

"Oakwell Hall is a truly exceptional building which the people of Kirklees should be proud of, it is also key to our strategy to improve our museums offer and this investment will ensure that it continues being a successful museum, educational facility and wedding and event venue for many years to come.”

The hall is due to reopen on , April 8.