A newly formed Thetford organisation is celebrating a major cash boost after receiving a £50,000 grant from Thetford Town Council.
Deputy Mayor Cllr Mac MacDonald (front right) with members of Thetford Heritage Trust and Chief Officer, Maddie Exton (top left) on the steps of the Guildhall. Image: ©Thetford Town Council
Thetford Heritage Trust was established earlier this year to help promote and develop Thetford’s unique heritage offer, which includes links to Thomas Paine, Duleep Singh, Boudica, Dad’s Army and the UK’s first Black mayor, Allan Glaisyer Minns.
Town councillors agreed the grant at a meeting held at the end of July and celebrated the award with a cheque presentation. The funding has enabled the Trust to begin operating, with its new Chief Officer taking up the role in August.
Chair of Thetford Heritage Trust, Terry Jermy MP, said: “This funding marks an important first step in establishing Thetford Heritage Trust. Our vision begins with activating the potential of the Carnegie and Guildhall.
“We want to celebrate Thetford’s history while creating new opportunities for arts, culture and community activity – for the local people and visitors alike. Key to improving Thetford’s town centre will be getting visitors into the town, so the Trust will have wider and longer-term benefits as well.
“We will be working closely with the Town Council, our Trustees, and the community to make this vision a reality. I am grateful to the Council for their support with this grant.”
The decision builds on Thetford Town Council’s wider commitment to preserving and promoting the town’s rich heritage, including improvements to the historic Guildhall and its cupolas, and the ongoing restoration project at St Peter’s Church.
The St Peter’s Church project has recently received approval to begin its Development Phase, supported by a £608,146 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, made possible thanks to National Lottery players, alongside £120,000 in partnership funding from Pride in Place.
The Council believes the establishment of the Trust, together with the appointment of a Chief Officer and dedicated Board of Trustees, will be instrumental in ensuring these important community assets are managed effectively.
As part of the plan, the Trust will also take over the management of the town’s Guildhall and Carnegie complex.
Councillor Annie Blakbourn, Chair of Thetford Town Council’s Heritage and Events Committee, said: “The grant is essential for covering the start-up costs of the Trust and allowing it to begin operations.
“We are excited about the Trust’s potential to build new partnerships, enhance these venues, and boost public engagement with our local heritage. We look forward to this collaboration and are eager to see the positive impact it will have on the community.”
Looking forward, the Trust intends to pursue charitable status, which will significantly improve its ability to carry out community outreach projects and achieve its objectives.
The Town Council is committed to supporting the Trust throughout this foundational stage, recognising the important role it will play in ushering in a new era for the Carnegie and Guildhall.
To keep up to date with projects and initiatives at Thetford Town Council, visit www.thetfordtowncouncil.gov.uk.
