But now, the chair of the Belper North Mill Museum Trust, a registered charity, has confirmed that volunteers will “retain a presence” at the site, including conducting guided tours, from April.

Strutt's North Mill, in Belper, which produced cotton thread from 1804, is Grade I listed and forms part of the Derwent Mills World Heritage Site.

Each of the 500 figures is said to represent a worker. The exhibit in Belper was due to be taken down on Monday but has proved so popular organisers extended the show until mid-July.

All those evacuated following the incident in Belper are now able to return to their homes. We would like to thank everyone affected for their patience and for their assistance throughout today.

John Layton, chair of the Belper North Mill Trust, which runs the museum, says: “Once council funding is removed, you have to take steps to see if you can balance the books.

Strutt's North Mill, in Belper, which produced cotton thread from 1804, is Grade I listed and forms part of the Derwent Mills World Heritage Site. The museum closed in October after council grants ...

Strutt's North Mill, in Belper, which produced cotton thread from 1804, is Grade I listed and forms part of the Derwent Mills World Heritage Site.