9 March 2013 Last updated at 11:40 ET

David Attenborough opens new Wakefield Museum

The new Wakefield Museum contains many items from naturalist Charles Waterton's collection

Wakefield's new city museum has been officially opened by broadcaster and naturalist Sir David Attenborough.

The museum moved from its former home at the Mechanics' Institute in Wood Street to its new site in the £31m Wakefield One building in November.

It features the collection of noted 19th century Wakefield naturalist Squire Charles Waterton.

Sir David said he was "privileged" to open a museum which highlighted Squire Waterton's life and achievements.

'Beautiful design'

Displays in the museum include a Cayman crocodile which the Squire rode on the banks of the Essequibo river in Guyana in the 1820s.

Other pieces from the Squire's collection which have never previously been seen in the UK are also on show.

Sir David said: "It's been a great privilege to open this spectacular new museum. It's a beautiful design, is beautifully displayed and is full of interesting things.

"I'm particularly glad that the space has been found to celebrate Charles Waterton."