MY January contribution to the Advertiser was all about the Tenbury & District Museum.

The committee came to the conclusion that a non-specific site feasibility study should be undertaken.

One fascinating part of the independently produced document were the results of the questionnaire of which 306 were returned.

The first key question was “Do you think it is important that Tenbury has a museum”? Yes, 306 No, 0. There was no argument about that one!

Next came “What do you look for in a museum”?

There was a welcome response numbering 630 with a considerable variety.

The three main ones, “Interesting objects” 229; “The story of the area ”266; and “Archives and research facilities” 52.

Others mentioned more than once included: Local history, Retaining the same friendly and knowledgeable staff, Featuring people who have lived locally, Interactive items for kids, and, last but not least, Toilet facilities!

One question asked where should it be?

The Old Fire Station (adjacent to the new Tesco) 162; The Pump Rooms 156; with only 26 leaving it where it was in Goff’s School.

It was interesting to note that 277 residents responded with visitors making up the remaining 29.

One outstanding contribution made under Final Comments was one saying: “A museum is a great advantage for the town, an attraction for visitors, a place to take friends and family. Telling the story of the town and area, keeping social history alive. Also a great education venue for school children.”

So that’s a taste of people’s views.

The committee are now moving forward and hope to resume talks with Tesco now that the Old Fire Station is no longer the contractors' site office!