The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum, Coventry

The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum in the centre of Coventry, next to the Cathedral, held two most successful events on 31st March and 1st April, growing their visitor total well past 500,000 since reopening in the autumn 2008 after a major refurbishment and has just received the 2010  Guardian Family Friendly Museum Award. In addition, this year The Herbert is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its first opening in 1960.

The Herbert's The History of the World in 100 Objects exhibited a number of significant pieces related to Warwickshire. The event was introduced by Annie Othen of BBC Coventry, a representative from the British Museum and Ludo Keston, The Herbert's chief executive

JK Starley's Safety Bicycle

Fascinating local objects included a 500,000 year old hand axe, the JK Starley Safety Bicycle (from which all modern bicycles derive), Shakespeare's signet ring, Frank Whittle's 1943 jet engine, William Lyons's E-Type Jaguar and one of the earliest rugby balls.

The Coventry Open Arts Competition held on 1st April included a number of fine pieces, the overall winner being Marinos Thoma. Some photos of the event and exhibits can be seen here.

The Herbert has also relaunched its Friends scheme, with Margaret Rylatt as President and Peter Walters as chairman.