A WORCESTER landmark will be given a huge revamp following a £1.2million cash injection from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
The Museum of Royal Worcester will be able to bring the story of Worcester Porcelain alive and attract new audiences thanks to the £1,282,700 investment.
Among the improvements being planned is a gallery refurbishment, educational programme, community projects and a lively programme of events.
As part of the ‘Celebrating 250 Years of Innovation, Industry and Craftsmanship’ project, hidden stories and exhibits from the archives will display the skills, techniques and developments of the workers, as well as the social history and sense of community inspired by the factory.
Excerpts from the workers’ audio recordings will describe the camaraderie and rivalry that existed between departments and show just how many skilled pairs of hands it took to create each piece.
As the oldest porcelain manufacturer in Britain, The Museum of Royal Worcester exported to every corner of the world since its formation in 1751.
Porcelain orders were commissioned by monarchs and statesmen, with millions of people marking the special moments of their lives by dining off Royal Worcester China.
Museum Director Amanda Savidge told the Observer the venue was delighted to be in touch with 200 former workers to help bring the project to life.
“It is great for them to get together and share memories,” she said.
“We are absolutely over the moon about the news. I am sure everybody says that but we really are, it is such a great cause and it is brilliant for the city of Worcester.
“It is a wonderful opportunity for the grandchildren and further generations to take pride in the skills of the factory workers.
“We want The Museum of Royal Worcester to be part of the community and to take full place on the world stage,” she added.
Museum patron Henry Sandon MBE said he was looking forward to the historic venue being able to welcome new audiences through the doors
“The museum possesses a great archive of the lives and work of the thousands of craftsmen and it will be wonderful to display this in a modern way so that it can be brought to life and the public can appreciate the human person behind the superb work.
Vanessa Harber, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund West Midlands, said: “Thanks to National Lottery players, the museum’s fascinating collections will now be available for more people to learn about.
