It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our Interim Chair of Trustees Graham Shuttleworth who died on Saturday 3rd May 2025.
Graham joined the Museum as a Trustee in 2020, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his career in managing housing projects. During his time on the board he managed to secure numerous successful funded projects helping to secure the Museum’s development, paving the way to future prosperity.
His work saw the incorporation of Gunn Cottages to the Museum, courtesy of Heritage Lottery funding in 2020 alongside the refurbishment of the existing Museum buildings. He oversaw a new training programme for staff and volunteers. Most recently Graham worked to obtain a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund in 2024, now being used to secure the sustainability of the Museum and increase accessibility for visitors.
But more than this, Graham was known as a gentleman who would always go to great effort to show his gratitude to our volunteers and staff. He was regularly seen at the Museum site and his involvement was often described as “hands on”.
In the last few months, Graham’s involvement included stepping into the role of Interim Chair of the Trustees, leading the governance of the museum and establishing a renewed focus on the positive impact that the museum has for all. His influence was significant, and he will be greatly missed by all at the Museum.
The Museum will be closed on Wednesday 28 May 2025 in order to allow our team to show their respects by attending his funeral. The Cafe area and garden will remain open to the public.