Museum at heart of town could be forced to close permanently as major works needed

The museum is currently closed as it is ‘not safe’ for it to be open to the public – but without additional funding, it may not ever be able to reopen

The future of a museum is at risk as volunteers need more funding for urgent repairs. Major work to repair the roofs of Ramsey Rural Museum’s 10 buildings has been ongoing since January.

The museum has been able to undertake the much-needed repair, thanks to nearly £100,000 in funding from US charity the Leir Foundation. While the work has been going on, it’s been discovered that more work is needed on 3,500 pantiles that were damaged when they were originally fitted nearly 50 years ago.

While there is some grant funding left, the volunteers are “almost certain” this funding will run out. Volunteers are now appealing to the public for funding.

If the funding isn’t raised, the museum could “undoubtedly” close, said trustee and treasurer Jeremy Mumford. He added: “The museum needed to repair these roofs as they were dangerous. Because of this additional work, we anticipate all of the money will run out before it’s completed.

“It’s not safe at the moment to be open to the public, therefore we are not getting any money. That is the biggest issue. We need to keep the museum in front of people and show that we need their support.”

The rural museum will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2028. Inside there are more than 40,000 artefacts that showcase the working and social history of Ramsey, as well as the surrounding area.

Jeremy said the museum is a “big part” of the town, and it forms part of the town’s “fabric”. “The museum is like an old friend,” said Jeremy. He added: “We put on events to celebrate local work and businesses. We seek to educate and entertain people.”

If the funding is not raised, there is a chance the museum may not be able to reopen. Alternatively, if it is to open again, they may have to start charging entry, when it’s currently free, or hold fewer events.

Jeremy added: “It depends on what we find in the two other roofs that we haven’t touched yet. We also certainly know we are going to go over [budget] if these roofs have the same issues. We are going to be significantly short of money.”

Anyone who wishes to donate to help the rural museum with its repairs can donate here.