A museum dedicated to a man who celebrated the labyrinthine eccentricities of science and bureacracy was opened in fittingly elaborate style.

William Heath Robinson, born in 1872, was an English cartoonist and artist who grew up in north London.

He drew illustrations for Kipling and Shakespeare, but is best known today for his cartoons showing complex machinery devised to carry out everyday tasks, which grew from schemes for secret weapons during the First World War.

Writer Michael Rosen operated the ribbon cutting machine when the Heath Robinson museum in Pinner Memorial Park opened to the public on Saturday October 15.

Surviving friends and family of the artist attended the event.

Two galleries have opened at the museum, the Heath Robinson Gallery and the Joan Brinsmead Gallery.

The Heath Robinson gallery is a permanent exhibition, explaining the artist’s life and artistic development. 

Designed to host special exhibitions, the Joan Brinsmead Gallery will showcase Heath Robinson's work at war.  

Children and families can use the studio to create their own masterpieces.

Cynthia Wells, acting chair of the West Lodge & Heath Robinson Museum Trust said: “The museum, now open, has exceeded our expectations in every way. 

“One of the most striking aspects of the museum is the glass-fronted activity studio with its wonderful view of the Memorial Park and lake. 

“Our thanks go to the National Lottery players for helping to fund this long-awaited project, and the many local Patrons, sponsors, supporters and volunteers who are central to the long-term success of the Museum.” 

Here is a video from the opening:

To learn more about the museum, visit HeathRobinsonmuseum.org