Important historical documents and photographs of Cowes area could be lost if the Cowes Heritage and Community Group (CHCG) cannot find new organisers.
Resignation of key trustees triggers closure fears
The registered charity, which is based at the Beckford Centre and holds thousands of photos and historical documents relating to the history of Cowes, Gurnard and Northwood, is facing closure this year with the resignation of key trustees due to health and personal reasons.
Lin Hayward, current chairperson, treasurer and membership secretary of the group, who is unable to continue as a trustee after this year, said,
“The future of the heritage collection is at risk unless we can find people to take over the running of the CHCG.”
A wealth of local history under one roof
As well as storing the historical records and photographs, CHCG has produced a wide range of popular books on local history and holds regular exhibitions at its premises the Beckford Centre, in Beckford Road, Cowes.
The previous group, Cowes Heritage, held annual exhibitions of historic photographs in the town for a number of years.
The Beckford Centre is also a community facility.
CHCG took over the Beckford Centre from the Cowes Voluntary Group and extended the space to store archives previously held by the old Cowes Heritage Group.
More than a heritage group
CHCG holds well-supported social groups in arts and craft and IW history, plus public talks by guest speakers. There are also public drop-in sessions for a chat or to research local history.
Community facility also at risk
The future of the Beckford Centre as a community facility is also very much at risk if the CHCG has to close due to a lack of volunteers and trustees.
How to get involved
If you are able to help keep the CHCG and Beckford Centre running, please email on [email protected] to find out more.
Visit the website for more information.
News shared by Mary on behalf of CHCG. Ed
