MP Dr Mullan has praised the dedication of volunteers who run local museums across the constituency during a Parliamentary debate on the value of local museums.
Speaking in a Westminster Hall debate, Kieran highlighted the important role small, volunteer-led museums play in preserving local history, supporting education and bringing communities together.
Dr Mullan thanked volunteers behind Bexhill Museum, which welcomes around 1,500 schoolchildren every year and supports a further 2,000 pupils through loan boxes used in local classrooms. The museum is currently completing a major refurbishment supported by a £390,000 grant from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport through Arts Council England.
Other volunteer-run museums highlighted included the Battle Museum of Local History and Pevensey Court House Museum & Gaol, which welcomed nearly 5,500 visitors last year despite being run largely by volunteers.
Kieran also praised the work of the Bright Foundation in Westfield, founded with the support of Oscar-winning costume designer John Bright.
Over the past fifty-five years, John and his team at Cosprop have collaborated with designers to create costumes for major productions ranging from Pirates of the Caribbean to Downton Abbey. Through the Bright Foundation, he has helped create the Barn Theatre and museum which gives children and families opportunities to engage with the arts.
Dr Mullan said local museums rely on the passion and commitment of volunteers who give their time to preserve and share the history of their communities.
Kieran comments: “Local museums may often be small and volunteer-run, but their contribution to education, community identity and local pride is invaluable. I want to thank the dedicated volunteers and trustees across Bexhill and Battle who work so hard to keep these wonderful institutions open for everyone.”
