Exhibition Marks first phase of £50,000 investment in Royal Crown Derby Visitor Centre.....

Royal Crown Derby has unveiled the first phase of a £50,000 investment in its visitor Centre, with the launch of a new exhibition entitled 'The Finest of Dining - from 1750 to 2013 and beyond.' The prestigious new exhibition at the Osmaston Road factory site features some of the world's most exclusive ranges of fine bone china made for Royalty and aristocracy throughout the world - all of which were created by Royal Crown Derby's artisans. The exhibition was launched to invited dignitaries and guests by Royal Crown Derby's Chief Executive Kevin Oakes and Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant Mr. William Tucker.

The exhibition will be open to visitors until the end of the year along with the site's award winning museum and factory tours where people can see the

World-famous ware being made and decorated. Displays include exhibits of ware commissioned by Royalty through the ages, including Queen Victoria and George Ill, items created for Tiffany and designs by Salvador Dali; coming right up to date with exquisite services featured in worldwide hit TV series' Downton Abbey and Mr. Selfridge. The exhibition marks a major investment in the award-winning Visitor Centre which will also see new activities and facilities launching throughout the summer and autumn to create a truly five-star attraction.

Plans include:

·    a new decorating studio for families,

·    upgraded factory tour experience,

·    programme of free activities

Throughout the summer for children:-

• Fantastic new retail outlet 

• new museum experience,

• Relaxed new coffee lounge with children's corner and free Wi-Fi,

·  exclusive afternoon tea venue

·  A series of exciting new events.

Royal Crown Derby Chief Executive Kevin Oakes said: "Royal Crown Derby is entering an exciting new phase in its illustrious history. We are investing in the company, its people and this historic site and our aim is to create a thriving Centre of excellence which the city can be truly proud of.

‘Already the investment is leading to new jobs with three young apprentices in place and a fourth apprentice on the cards. An events manager is about to be recruited and we anticipate three positions will be created in the new cafe and afternoon tea experience. We hope local families and visitors to Derby alike will support us and come and see what a vibrant and exciting place Royal Crown Derby has become." Admission to the exhibition (including free entry to the museum) is £2 per person and £1 for children and concessions. Throughout the summer, admission to the exhibition will also be free for visitors taking a tour of the factory. For opening times and full details visit www.royalcrownderby.co.uk