Hansom Cab home appeal boost
A CASH boost has benefited plans to deliver a permanent home to Hinckley’s famous Hansom Cab.
Just over £850 was presented to Hinckley and District Museum following a fundraising evening held at Cafe Espanol in the Atkins Building opposite.
Hinckley and Bosworth borough councillors Jan Kirby and Janice Richards handed over the cheque to Ann Crabtree, chairman of the museum and colleague Colin Pratt.
They organised the presentation and were joined by Cafe Espanol proprietors Julian and Sylvia Romero.
The museum is raising money and looking to apply for a National Lottery grant to build an extension to the side of the building, on land being made available by the borough council.
Janice said: “We had a great night at Cafe Espanol with 85 people attending and treated to a glass of prosecco on arrival and then a fantastic buffet. Entertainment throughout the night was by the Sunset Soul Duo.
“Myself and Jan would like to thank Julian and Sylvia from Cafe Espanol for all their help and to thank everyone who attended for their support and generosity in making the event so successful.”
Some £25,000 has been raised with a target of a further £25,000 as well as the hoped for heritage grant.
The Hansom Cab, dubbed the “gondola of London” by Victorian PM Benjamin Disraeli, was developed and tested in the town by Yorkshireman Joseph Hansom.
Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council own one of the horse-drawn carriages and a stagecoach which were once on display at the Hinckley Island Hotel.
A deal was struck for their removal and repair with the stagecoach being gifted as payment and the Hansom Cab kept at the restorers until a suitable permanent home is available.