An 'excellent' scheme to reward Marlow volunteers who give up their free time will boost the town’s museum as it gears up for a new exhibition, according to its chairman.

From this month, helpers at Marlow Museum will receive ‘Time Credits’ to spend on attractions such as theatre tickets for every hour they work.

And chairman Mike Hyde said he jumped at the chance to get involved with the scheme as he and his colleagues curate the upcoming exhibition next month entitled ‘Marlow’s River - how the Thames shaped our town’.

He said: "At first glance this idea looked too good to be true. It did not cost the Museum a penny, and it seemed a really good way to recognise all the hard work and time given by our volunteers.

"We now think it is an excellent idea for our museum and will benefit our supporters".

The Time Credits scheme is operated by charity Spice across England and Wales. The aim is to provide a way for people to become more involved in their communities.

From March to the end of October the museum is open on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays from 1-5pm.

The museum at Court Garden, near Higginson Park, will celebrate its sixth birthday in June, and welcomed its 10,000th visitor just under a year ago.