A FYLDE mother who took her family on a day trip to Liverpool got a VIP surprise when she found out she was a museum's millionth visitor.

Ann Horton, a charity worker for the Council of Voluntary Services in Blackpool, was welcomed in to HM Customs and Excise national museum by the legendary 18th century Wirral innkeeper and smuggler Mother Redcap.

Mother Redcap broke the news to the family and presented them with a bottle of vintage champagne and an all-expenses paid trip to Granada TV studios in London to visit the Customs and Excise drama The Knock.

Then she produced an inscribed scroll from secret pockets sewn into her skirt used for concealing smuggled goods.

The family went on to see the museum's wide-ranging displays including cases of confiscated items, a "rummage" area where visitors can search for contraband and a historic section featuring an 18th century smuggler and "duty man".

Mrs Horton said: "We were thrilled when we were told we were the millionth visitors.

"The museum changed our perception of the Customs and Excise with its brilliant displays of contraband goods.

"We were also given insights into the everyday work of the service along with a fascinating look at its history."

Mr Horton added: "We were on our first family outing to Liverpool and this was a wonderful surprise.

Ann had worked out an itinerary for the day and this was the last thing we expected."

The Hortons' two children, 12-year-old Rachael and William, nine, both enjoyed the trip and we were given goody bags by museum curator Graham Boxer.

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