John Baron MP meets Heritage Lottery Fund at Cater Museum, Billericay

John with (L-R) Chris Brewster (Curator, Cater Museum) & Roy Swanston (HLF)

MP praises £41,000 grant and commits to organising workshops to encourage other funding applications

Today John Baron MP visited Cater Museum, Billericay High Street, where he discussed the £41,000 grant given by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to the museum with Mrs Christine Brewster (Curator), Mrs Sylvia Kent (Trustee, Cater Museum) and Roy Swanston (HLF Committee Member).  The £41,000 has been used to complete the development project at the rear of the museum.  John took this opportunity to discuss what more could be done to encourage other local applications for HLF funding, and is now organising HLF workshops in both Billericay & Basildon to this effect.

John said:

“ The Cater Museum has always been a jewel in Billericay’s crown, but this additional funding has enhanced the building tremendously.  Our thanks go to the Heritage Lottery Fund and indeed Chris, the Trustees and the whole team at the museum for doing such a great job.”

“ The rich history of the local area deserves more grants. Following our meeting today, HLF has taken this on board and agreed to help me organise a workshop in both Billericay & Basildon to help encourage more applications.  Worthy causes across the District take note! Further details to follow.”

Chris Brewster said:

“ We at the Cater Museum are grateful for the help received from the Heritage Lottery Fund in the past.  With their financial assistance we hope that other sites of historical importance in the area will be preserved for the coming generations.  Maintaining the community spirit and historical aspect of Billericay is a joint effort involving residents, property owners and government.  We particularly wish to thank John Baron for his efforts and support and look forward to working with him in the future.”