NORTH Berwick’s museum is celebrating its 10th birthday with a new exhibit to commemorate the life of one of the town’s bravest heroes.

The Coastal Communities Museum opened in 2013, following the closure of North Berwick’s previous museum 11 years prior.

Following a campaign by locals to see the museum reopen, it has gone from strength to strength, hosting successful exhibitions every year.

Since its reformation, locals have filled the need for trustees to manage the project and for volunteers to open the museum and complete behind-the-scenes tasks.

Now the museum has 11 trustees and about 50 volunteers.

The 2023 exhibition Land, Sea, People, Stories has been well received by visitors and groups, but a new display will be unveiled from next Thursday (July 27).

It will tell the story of Catherine Watson, a young woman who drowned trying to save a child in the 19th century.

Kathryn Smith, secretary of the Coastal Communities Museum, said: “The red granite cross on Anchor Green is a familiar sight in North Berwick, but few people know the story behind this imposing stone edifice.

“It has become part of the landscape of North Berwick Harbour, frequently assumed to be a war memorial or connected to the old kirk ruins.

“It is in fact an unusual memorial to a brave young woman called Catherine Watson, who drowned in her attempt to rescue a child.

“The display about Catherine’s life and work will be launched on the anniversary of her death, July 27, 1889, with a very special loaned set of exhibits.”

The museum welcomes all interested people to join the museum as members, volunteers and board members.

For more information, visit the website at CoastalMuseum.org or email hello@coastalmuseum.org