England: Manchester's National Football Museum attracts 458,000 visitors in first year

Since moving to Manchester in July 2012, the National Football Museum has welcomed 458,000 visitors, said the institution on the 08/07/2013. This total represents 30.8% more than the 350,000 target set for its first year in Manchester.

Since 2012, the museum has received an annual €2.3m grant from Manchester City Council.

Opened in February 2001, the museum was located in Preston (32km north of Manchester) until June 2012 and received approximately 100,000 visitors a year.

The National Museum of English football is governed by an independent board. Its directors are from the heritage sector, football authorities and the private sector.