FAMILIES are being urged to back an Exeter attraction in an attempt to scoop a national award.

St Nicholas Priory is entering The Guardian newspaper's prestigious Family Friendly Award 2009.

It will be submitting an entry at the end of this month and needs help to boost its chances of winning.

"It's easy to help us," said Alan Caig, head of leisure and museums at Exeter City Council, which runs St Nicholas Priory. "Just email or write to The Guardian Family Friendly Award and tell them why the Priory deserves to win."

During the school holidays there are plenty of free family-friendly activities at the priory. From sampling Tudor nibbles in the Elizabethan kitchen to trying on costumes, dancing, and encountering Tudor medicine and Shakespeare's stories – all the activities are hands-on and fun to do.

Mr Caig added: "There is also a new, free Robert the Rat trail for early years children. Our youngest visitors now have toys, stories, activities and trails especially for them. They were designed with help from the West Exe Children's Centre."

To nominate St Nicholas Priory for the award email: award@kidsinmuseums. org.uk or write to Guardian Family Friendly Museum Award, Kids in Museums, Downstream Building, 1 London Bridge, London, SE1 9BG.

For more details on the award visit www. kidsinmuseums.org.uk