FEARS have emerged for the long-term future of Bridgnorth’s ‘prizewinning showpiece’ museum. Unless a new curator can be found for the Northgate attraction next year it might have to close.
The warning came this week from Bridgnorth & District Historical Society spokesman Michael Pead. He has also urged people to step forward to ensure that both the historical society and another guardian of the town’s heritage – the civic society – continue.
The society is responsible for the top floor of the Northgate and a team of volunteers work throughout the year to enable the museum to be open to the public, free of charge, during the summer.
“The curator and his team have transformed this museum into a prizewinning showpiece, but his retirement is imminent,” explained Mr Pead.
“Now the time has come for a volunteer to be trained, by the curator, to take over his post, so that the good work can continue, otherwise the museum may have to close,” he added.
Mr Pead, also speaking for the civic society, pointed out that both societies experienced difficulties in filling official posts at their annual general meetings.
“It can often be a never-ending rotation of the same old faces, who do all the work, but there does come a time when such stalwarts run out of steam.
“Consequently, new blood is needed to keep the show on the road. To become an officer or committee member requires a little enthusiasm, but is not an unwelcome burden.
“The two societies lie at the very heart of Bridgnorth and the contribution they give to keep this historic town in the public eye is tremendous.
“The civic society has a wide remit to promote and organise such action as is needed for the preservation and improvement of the amenities and character of Bridgnorth.”
Anyone who is able to help either society is invited to contact David Cooper on (01746) 762487 for the civic society and chairman Edward Marshall on (01746) 763860 for the historical society.