Brighton Museum and Art Gallery gave invited guests a sneak preview of its new look at a dazzling launch party.

Special guests gave the thumbs-up when they saw the results of the Church Street museum's revamp, the biggest in its 100-year history.

There were thanks to members of the public who have made a special contribution to the exhibitions.

Guests were given guided tours of the galleries by curators who let them in on the secrets of the exhibits on show.

The museum re-opens to the public on Saturday. A spokeswoman said: "We're holding a series of these special days to give a preview to people who have contributed, such as those who have given us oral histories, people who have donated objects, basically anyone we needed to thank for their help.

"The party was a great success with almost 600 people coming through in the six hours."

The restoration is part of the Dome complex renovation and was undertaken with the help of a £7.5 million contribution from the Heritage Lottery Fund.