FAMILIES in Bromsgrove are being urged get their sleeping bags ready as they are invited to join celebrity author Alan MacDonald at Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings for a special sleepover.

As part of the national Museums at Night festival on Saturday, May 17, Avoncroft Museum will be open overnight for visitors to pitch their tents for an evening of fun and activities including readings and activities with the writer of the 'Dirty Bertie' and 'Oi, Cave Boy' books. There will also be a campfire with ghost stories, costumed characters in some of the historic buildings and star-gazing with the Bromsgrove Astronomical Society.

Those who take part can bring their own picnic for a midnight feast in the famous Guesten Hall with its beautiful 14th century roof.

Booking in advance is essential. Call 01527 831363 to reserve your place or for more information. The cost is £25 per four-person tent and gates will open at 5.30pm to set up camp with activities starting at 7pm.

Museums at Night, which will see hundreds of museums, galleries, libraries, archives and heritage sites across the UK open their doors for special evening events, offers the chance to experience culture and heritage in a totally unique way.

For more information on events that are taking place visit museumsatnight.org.uk.