In recent years the deteriorating condition of the Museum buildings has been causing concern and they have now reached a state where the important collection is at risk. Visitor facilities are minimal and there is very limited space for education work or research. The current entrance, in what was once a temporary classroom, is dilapidated and does little to convey what lies beyond.
In order to protect the collection and make it more accessible to the public and to provide first class education and learning facilities, we are embarking on a comprehensive programme of refurbishment and restoration which will allow us to:
The total cost of the project is estimated to be £2.3 million.
Our fundraising target is £1.3 million and, thanks to a number of very generous individuals, charitable trusts and the Heritage Lottery Fund, we have made a strong start in raising this amount. We are now asking all our friends and supporters to help us reach our target. If you would like to be involved, there are a number of ways in which you can help.
All donors will be kept up to date with developments and their donation will be acknowledged in the newly opened Museum. We hope that you will agree to make your payment under Gift Aid which would allow the Museum to reclaim a further 22% from the Inland Revenue. If you wished to spread your donation over a period of up to two years, you could do so by completing a Bank Standing Order.
Gifts of $500 or over from US donors can be tax-deductible, if sent via CAFAmerica.
BECOME A SUPPORTER – If you contribute £100 or more to the Appeal, you will be kept up to date with developments and your donation will be acknowledged in the newly opened Museum. You and a guest will be invited to attend the celebrations when the Museum re-opens.
BECOME A BENEFACTOR - If you contribute £500 or more to the Appeal, you will be kept up to date with developments and your donation will be acknowledged in the newly opened Museum. You will receive Life Membership of the Friends of the Museum and will be invited to the Private View of all Museum exhibitions. You and a guest will be invited to attend the celebrations when the Museum re-opens.
BECOME A VICE-PATRON – Those who contribute £1,000 and above will be enrolled in our Vice Patrons Scheme. All Vice-Patrons will receive the benefits listed above and, in addition, your donation will be prominently acknowledged in the newly opened Museum on a panel commissioned from a leading contemporary lettering artist. You and a guest will be invited to a special reception and to the celebrations when the Museum re-opens.