BROMSGROVE’S Avoncroft Museum has made a desperate plea to residents to help ensure its long-term future.
The venue closed its doors ten days ago because of the COVID-19 pandemic and bosses said because of the loss in revenue the museum needed its supporters’ help more than ever.
“We all wondered how long these extraordinary times would go on as a result of the Coronavirus outbreak.
“The Covid-19 pandemic is a tragedy against which the uncertain future of one museum in Worcestershire seemed a small matter, however passionately we care about it.
“In the event, we have been bowled over by the messages of support from friends and supporters in the community who look forward to us reopening, as do we all.”
The message, posted on Avoncroft’s website, thanked everyone for their messages, adding they were ‘really appreciated’.
“Avoncroft Museum is not only a nationally important collection of historic buildings, it represents the collective memory of Midlands communities and our relationship with the built environment over time.
“In uncertain times, people need more than ever to cling onto that sense of shared identity, to believe in ourselves as a community and to care for each other.”
The venue needs to cover its expenditure while it is closed and, although Avoncroft has radically cut its costs, it makes well over half its income from admissions and events.
“Without that money, we are likely to be on shaky ground.”
Trustees and a small new team of core staff are currently trying to establish which of the Government streams of support are open to them and what effect it will have on the budget.
A second problem is that reserves will be severely depleted by the time it is able to re-open.
“We will need a more major injection of funds before that point.
“We are applying for major grants as we speak.
“We can’t wait until we reopen and we look forward to seeing you all.”
Museum bosses say if each person reading their appeal contributed £5 each it would make a massive difference to the problems being faced.
Anyone wanting to pledge cash can visit the donation page.
Alternatively, send a cheque, payable to ‘Avoncroft Museum’ to Avoncroft Museum, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, B60 4JR
Email [email protected] for more information.
