Thousands of exhibits dedicated to Admiral Lord Nelson including a lock of his hair and his boyhood penknife have been locked away, after a museum was cleared out.

The memorabilia had been on display since 2002 in the former Nelson Museum, on South Quay in Great Yarmouth, until the building closed more than a year ago due to declining visitor numbers and the removal of council funding.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: The Norfolk Nelson Museum Picture: ArchantThe Norfolk Nelson Museum Picture: Archant

Over the last few weeks, all exhibits have been removed from the building and placed into storage, and on February 5, the keys were handed back to the Great Yarmouth Preservation Trust (GYPT), which owns the property.

Kerry Robinson-Payne, the former museum's curator, said: "It was quite emotional to see an empty museum and closing the door for the last time."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: A portrait of Lord Horatio Nelson.A portrait of Lord Horatio Nelson. (Image: Archant)

The original collection was started by Ben Burgess, an avid Nelson enthusiast.

Chris Brett, vice-chairman of the Nelson Society, said: "It's disappointing. Obviously we would like to see the Nelson artefacts on display, but we're keen that the collection is kept together."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Curator, staff and volunteers on the last day of the Norfolk Nelson Museum’s opening.Curator, staff and volunteers on the last day of the Norfolk Nelson Museum’s opening. (Image: Kerry Robinson Payne)

GYPT is planning to reopen the building as an art gallery.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: David Cansick lowering the flag for the last time at the Norfolk Nelson Museum in Great Yarmouth.David Cansick lowering the flag for the last time at the Norfolk Nelson Museum in Great Yarmouth. (Image: Kerry Robinson Payne)