TO say that there is plenty to see and enjoy at Penlee House is an understatement.

From the funeral hatchment of Sir Humphry Davy, who died in Geneva in 1829 at the early age of 41, to the early 20th Century diver's helmet and suit which confronts you on entering the gallery, there is something for everyone.

With its new walls, lighting, carpets and cases, the social history gallery now holds more than twice the number of items than before, all accompanied by a wealth of fascinating facts and intriguing stories.

Talented volunteers

Curated by Dr Joanna Mattingly and staffed with a team of talented volunteers from the community, Penlee House Gallery and Museum receives funding from the Heritage Lottery, and is also funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council through the University of Exeter at Falmouth.

From its cabinet of curiosities which, created by the community with the assistance of Mousehole-based poet Sally Crabtree, has already proved enormously popular, to its themed displays, this must now be one of the most inviting and informative museums in the county. In the gallery, you will find eye-catching reminders of Penzance businesses of the past, a silver inkwell made in about 1911 for the Seaman's Mission, Newlyn, and early 19th Century medallions of Napoleon and Marie Louise. Just three of the many fascinating artefacts.

The reopening of the gallery coincided with Penlee House's new website www.penleehouse. org.uk which was designed by Creative Edge, Truro, and provides information on everything Penlee House Gallery and Museum contains.

Within hours of being set up, it received queries from all over the world, from Canada to India to Russia.

Not only beautifully presented and easy to read, but also free until January 9, a visit to Penlee House before then must be one of the best free Christmas treats around. It is also currently hosting the Christmas exhibition by members of Cornwall Crafts Association.

The redisplayed social history gallery and the cabinet of curiosities, together with the exhibition Penlee Inspired, can be seen in Penlee House Gallery and Museum, from 10.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Saturday.