Move to revive history society (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Move to revive history society

SHIPSTON'S local history society has launched a drive to find new members to support an expanded programme of events.

Currently the society, founded in 1965, focuses solely on maintaining its museum on Sheep Street, following a decision to suspend other activities several years ago.

A public meeting is now being planned to gauge the support for a reinvigorated local history society.

Museum curator Mike Ashley said he hoped people would be interested in supporting a range of activities including lectures, outings and research projects. "The museum in the town centre has proved to be a major attraction to visitors as well as giving much pleasure to local inhabitants both young and old.

"We believe it's now time to re-establish a public lecture programme, beginning with a public meeting to inaugurate this initiative."

He added that if there was enough demand, monthly meetings with talks by experts in local history could become a feature of the town's calendar of events.

The Sheep Street museum is home to a wide collection of artefacts, documents, photographs and other historical items. A display focusing on commerce in the town - both retail and business ventures - is being assembled in time for the museum's opening at Easter.

For information about the history society call Mike Ashley on 01608 661403 or Dick Burge on 01608 661927.

A date for the public meeting has yet to be announced.