DUNHAM Massey was pipped at the post when the National Trust property missed out on becoming the Museum of the Year for its recreation of a First World War hospital.

The UK’s largest arts’ prize of £100,000 – the Art Fund Prize for the Museum of the Year 2015 – was awarded to the other Manchester finalist in the prestigious competition – The Whitworth, at a ceremony at Tate Modern in London.

Stephen Adams, Dunham’s general manager, said after the decision last Wednesday night: “While we are disappointed that Dunham didn’t win, we would like to congratulate the Whitworth on becoming Museum of the Year, and our four fellow finalist museums – HM Tower of London, Natural History Museum, Oxford, The MAC, Belfast and Imperial War Museums London, who put up such inspiring competition.

"Dunham Massey is the first National Trust property to have reached the finals of the Art Fund Prize for Museum of the Year, and the first country house to do so, so we are very proud of our achievement.

"I would like to thank all those involved the Stamford Hospital project - staff and volunteers, our artistic director Andrew Barry and actors, scriptwriters, designers ‘Outside Studios’ and supporters - who have worked so hard to bring the Stamford Hospital to life.

"They have poured their enthusiasm, dedication and creativity into what has been an incredible project.

"We will now be considering what kind of legacy the Stamford Hospital should have, in order that future visitors to Dunham will learn about its role in the First World War, and about the lives of the soldiers and nursing staff who were there."

The Stamford Hospital at Dunham Massey is open from Saturday to Wednesday, 11am - 5pm until November 11. Dunham Massey's gardens and estate are open daily.

Details at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunhammassey.