The new museum, left, and below, MP Helen Grant cuts the ribbon with mayor Brian
Mortimer Opening day for museum
THE new-look Maidstone Mu- seum has officially re-opened, following an extensive multi- million pound makeover and the addition of a new east wing. Housing a collection of more
than 60,000 artefacts and speci- mens, the museum is now one of the largest in the South East. Clad with “gold” shingles which hint at the museum’s col- lection of treasures, the exten- sion offers 40% more display space and includes lifts, a new café and a Japanese gallery. Two easily accessible education rooms have also been created. The first, for visiting school parties, is fully equipped with the latest audio-visual equip- ment. The second, a beautiful Victorian library, has been re- furbished to provide a meeting room for life-long learners and a
baby changing facilities. Maidstone and theWeald MP
gallery space for the museum’s fascinating art collection There is also a new-look re- ception area, occupied by Maid- stone’s Visitor Information Centre and the museum shop. Improvements also include a new café, cloakroom, toilets and
Helen Grant, who cut the offi- cial tape with Mayor of Maid- stone Cllr Brian Mortimer, said: “Our museum has always been a fantastic way to spend a day in our county town, but with new space for school groups, formal meetings, lunch and much else besides, there is now more reason than ever to come to Maidstone Museum. “I am proud to have such an inspiring institution in the midst ofMaidstone.” She congratulated manager Simon Lace and his team, as well as Maidstone Council, on theirwork to bring the project to fruition. Costing £4.2 million, the scheme received £2 million Heritage Lottery cash as well as private and public funding.
Wilde night out LENHAM Players’ spring pro- duction will be Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest”. Described as “a trivial com-
edy for serious people”, this is regarded as the culmination of Wilde’s artistic career. It is a comedy of manners, which mocks Victorian social cus- toms, not least in the famous “handbag” scene between Jack Worthing and Lady Bracknell. Performances will be at 7.45pm on May 25 and 26 at Lenham Community Centre. Tickets are £8 each, bring your own drinks and nibbles. Contact 01622 853800 or 01622 858561.
Society at risk THE Hollingbourne Society may have to be wound up if a new chairman is not found. Current chairman Andrew Brice is planning to stand down, but there is no one to take his place. The society was founded over
30 years ago to fight plans for the M20, which runs between the village and the A20. It evolved into a social organisa- tion, with monthly talks and visits, plus an annual Boxing Day Walk around Holling- bourne. For further details about the Hollingbourne Society, call Mr Brice on 01622 880520.
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