Tourist attraction in plea for help
ONE of the North East’s biggest tourist attractions its appealing for help to keep afloat.
Beamish Museum in County Durham, which days ago announced its plans to reopen on July 23, has now followed up with the launch of a fundraiser to support its bid to get up and running and secure its future.
The museum, which is also in the midst of an ambitious Remaking Beamish project – the biggest ever development of its outdoor site – had been planning a year of celebrations to mark its Golden Jubilee when the coronavirus crisis forced its closure in March.
And it has been hard hit by its many months of lockdown.
The region’s famous Living Museum of the North, founded in 1970, is a charity that relies on visitors for 95% of its income.
And the impact of having no money from ticket sales, retail or catering because of the fallout of Covid-19 has left it struggling and in need of donations.
Its statement this week said: “Beamish is appealing for support to help get up and running again and secure its future for generations to come.”
Its deputy director, Rhiannon Hiles, added: “Due to the coronavirus pandemic, we’ve had no visitors since March, through some of what would usually be our busiest months.
“The coronavirus pandemic has had a huge impact on the museum and we hope that people can help by making a donation – we’re incredibly grateful for any support people can give. We’re extremely proud to have been a part of our region for the past 50 years and we are working hard on our plans to welcome visitors once again.
“We know these are difficult times for everyone but whatever people can do to help is hugely appreciated; it really does mean such a lot to us.”
Aside from donations, other ways to support the museum include by becoming a Friends of Beamish member; buying or renewing a Beamish Unlimited Pass or giving a gift voucher. The online shop is also selling unusual items, including a special edition Monopoly.