SIR Bobby Charlton was reopening the North West's National Football Museum today as a free visitor attraction.

Until now, the museum, which is based at Preston North End's Deepdale stadium, has had to charge visitors nearly £7 to see its collection of exhibits, which include a replica of the Jules Rimet trophy Charlton helped England to win in 1966.

Following funding from the North West Development Agency and the Football Foundation, it has been able to secure its lease from Preston North End and open without charge.

Today, Manchester United and England legend Sir Bobby was being joined by the museum's first free visitor to officially reopen it.

Museum director Kevin Moore said: "It is fantastic that the NWDA has been so supportive of this project and it reflects the importance of football heritage in this region and the tremendous work that the museum is doing.

"Until now there has always been the possibility that potential visitors to the museum would choose instead to visit other free attractions in the region, but this tremendous partnership will ensure that visitor numbers continue to increase, which in turn will allow us to develop our product and in particular our educational programmes."

Sports minister Richard Cabord said: "Football is an important part of our culture and heritage. It is good news that everyone will now be able to visit the National Football Museum and enjoy the treasures of our national game."