Petersfield's history has a bright future

 

EHDC Cllr Adeel Shah and Community Development Officer Lucy Whittle visited Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery with Jeremy Mitchell, Fundraising Trustee

Hundreds of people have been introduced to the fascinating history of the local area at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery, thanks to support and funding from East Hampshire District Council. 

The St Peter’s Road tourist attraction brings the town’s past into the present through a brilliant mix of artefacts and interactive displays. 

It has been able to reach even more visitors with a range of events, activities and workshops funded by £15,000 from our Supporting Communities Fund. 

In total 76 workshops - ranging from archaeological digs on the Heath to craft groups - have attracted 570 participants, many of them pupils from local schools. 

EHDC Cllr Adeel Shah, Community Development Officer Lucy Whittle, Jeremy Mitchell, Fundraising Trustee and Ryan Watts, Head of Engagement, spend some time in the former police station's prison cell

Jeremy Mitchell, of Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery, said: “We really value the help and support we receive from EHDC and its councillors. 

“As an independent museum and art gallery, without any statutory funding, we really do need this extra support. Without it we would not be able to give our communities anything like the additional events and activities that we do. 

“EHDC’s grants have made a huge difference to what we are able to provide to residents.” 

The museum’s displays range from the heath’s ancient human history to a colourful collection of jolly jumpers owned by TV personality Gyles Brandreth, a big supporter of the museum. 

The building is located in the town’s former police station and courthouse, and visitors can learn about law enforcement in the past and even spend some time in the local cell. Or they can examine a huge display of pictures taken by legendary local photographer Don Eades.  

Alongside the £15,000 of funding from the Supporting Communities Fund, the museum and art gallery has previously received around £1,500 in grants from local Petersfield councillors which was used to preserve the former Petersfield Post snapper’s incredible collection. 

Cllr Adeel Shah, EHDC’s Portfolio Holder for Community Development and Engagement, visited the venue last week. 

He said: “I never knew Petersfield had such a rich and fascinating history. The displays and artefacts are well presented to keep everyone involved in the story of the town. 

“What really seemed encouraging to me was the work they are doing to draw more and more people to the museum through workshops and activities. 

“In this way they are reaching a new audience and introducing new people to the culture and history of the area. It was fascinating to see the great work they are doing and I am delighted EHDC has been able to support them through our grants.”