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12 September 2024

Popular Museum officer to stay in post thanks to two Wisbech charities

Two Wisbech charities have recognised the invaluable contribution to the town and district made by Wisbech and Fenland Museum learning and community officer Louise Haselgrove.

The Hudson Foundation and the Elizabeth Wright Charity have renewed their pledge to fund Louise's role at the Museum for three years from January 31, 2025.

Former teacher and museum professional Louise joined the Museum staff in 2019 to take charge of a two-year outreach project to all communities in the district funded by the Heritage Lottery.

When those first two years ended in April 2021, the two local charities stepped up to keep Louise at the Museum for three more years.

Chairman of the Museum board Stephen McGregor said: “The Wisbech and Fenland Museum is delighted to say a huge thank you to the Trustees of the Hudson Foundation and the Trustees of the Elizabeth Wright Charity who have agreed to fund on an equal basis for a further period of three years the position and work of Louise Haselgrove.

“As the many hundreds of people who have taken part in events organised by Louise at the Museum will testify, the work she does involving families and the community at large is essential in furtherance of the Museum’s role in Fenland as an educator and knowledge centre.
“Without this funding the role would come to an end and the area would be much the poorer. We are most grateful.”

Since April 2021, Louise has extended her role and now as well as community outreach she organises the museum's volunteers and all its education activities. She also stages community and learning events, art competitions, exhibitions and workshops.

On March 31st, 2023 the Museum's five-year Refounders Scheme ended. It had brought in £35,000 in pledged donations each year since 2017.

In April 2023 Wisbech Town Council paid its full annual grant of £20,000 for the last time – by agreement this will reduce each year by £2,500 down to zero.

That all adds up to a big hole to fill so it would have been impossible to continue employing Louise without outside help.