Somerset's Helicopter Museum, at Weston-super-Mare, has appointed an architect and consultants to prepare its bid for Heritage Lottery Funding, to improve the entrance and facilities at the museum.

Plans include a new two-storey entrance, additional display space, conference and enhanced retail facilities, and a more prominent display of the world speed record holder Westland Lynx helicopter.

Bristol architects Alec French have been appointed as lead designers in the funding bid stage, and consultants Heritage and Community will also support the bid.

The museum, founded in 1980 by a group of enthusiasts and primarily run by volunteers, holds the world's largest dedicated collection of helicopters and autogyros.

Museum chairman Captain Elfan ap Rees said: "We are very aware that the existing entrance is unsatisfactory and fails to convey to the public the size and breadth of our unique collection.

"Replacing the clutter of temporary buildings that have been in place for the last 20 years is a key part of the plan."

Alec French has previously worked on projects supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, such as the Underfall Yard, SS Great Britain and the Clifton Suspension Bridge.