CHANGES could be made in the way Malton Museum is funded after Ryedale councillors heard the current running costs amounted to nearly £12 for each admission.

The district council's overview and scrutiny committee had called for a report on the museum's finances because of its concerns that it was costing £11.80 a head for everyone visiting the museum, which contains a wealth of Roman artefacts.

Sue Redfern, assistant chief executive, said the council was looking to create a cultural strategy next year. Under existing arrangements, the museum was funded through a grant scheme. "We are looking at the museum as part of an access to services review with North Yorkshire County Council," she said, adding that an investigation was underway in Ryedale's other market towns where it was felt the two councils could share buildings to reduce costs.

Coun Debbie Aubrook, the committee chairman, wanted to see other partners involved in helping to fund the museum. "We don't know if £11.80 for each admission is reasonable and whether it compares favourably with other museums," she said.

However, said Coun Aubrook, her concerns were in no way a slight on the way the museum is run at present. "Those involved with the museum are very devoted to it."

Coun Allin Jenkins echoed her appreciation. "The voluntreers have done a great deal of work."

A review of the museum is to be carried out by the district council next summer.

Updated: 09:29 Thursday, December 27, 2001