I was delighted to join Secretary of State for Culture Media & Sport, Sajid Javid MP and Sir Peter Luff MP for Mid Worcestershire on a fascinating tour of Hartlebury Castle and the Worcestershire County Museum last week.
The Castle was the home of the Bishops of Worcester from the 13th Century until 2007 when it was put up for sale by the Church commissioners and nearly went into private hands. But thanks to the efforts of local residents who formed the Hartelbury Castle Preservation Trust, and Worcestershire County council, the entire property (including the historic Hurd library) has now been saved for the nation. The Trust and County successfully applied for two rounds of National Lottery Heritage funds, pulled a strong and viable business plan together and (togehter with private donations), raised more than £6million to preserve the Castle and Museum.
Thank you to the entire team who provided us with a fascinating tour and for telling us about the exciting plans for the future.