29 June 2015

Please note: this news article is in our archive. Articles were correct at time of publication, but should not be relied on for accuracy after the passage of time.

TOWN Councillors were invited to the Museum on 26 June for a special information evening that included a “behind the scenes” tour and a presentation of future plans.

Chairman Andrew Brock explained details of running the Museum and the financial challenge the Trustees face in maintaining the level of service it offers residents and visitors.  He also introduced the Councillors to the new Patrons’ Scheme and the plans for displaying the McIndoe collection.

Collections Officer, Jess Hadfield, showed the Councillors the research areas and the vast collection of artefacts that the Museum has in its stored collection.  Every item has been digitally photographed and can be made available for the public to examine on request.

Guinea Pig Club Secretary and Museum Trustee Bob Marchant was on hand to explain the importance of the McIndoe collection and the story of the Guinea Pig Club formed at the Queen Victoria Hospital during World War 2.

And Town Tourism Officer and Trustee Simon Kerr explained the vital role the Museum has in explaining the rich history of the town to visitors.

Museum Trustee and Deputy Mayor Cllr Bob Mainstone said “We invited the Town Councillors so that we could remind them of the important part the Museum plays in the life of East Grinstead.  We have the amazing story of the Guinea Pig Club and the work of Archibald McIndoe to tell in our future plans.  Meanwhile we have the financial struggle of the daily running costs of the Museum and we look forward to our supporters joining the Patrons’ Scheme to help secure the future of one of our town’s vital assets.”

Attending the visit were:  Town Mayor Cllr Dick Sweatman, Deputy Mayor Cllr Bob Mainstone, Cllr Danny Favor, Cllr Julie Mockford, Cllr Adam Peacock, Cllr Norman Webster, Cllr Peter Wyan, Cllr John Saull, Cllr Christine Mainstone