Minutes:
The update on the Biggin Hill Memorial Museum Trust was given by the Director—Jemma Davey. Ms Davey explained that the purpose of the museum was to tell the story of those who fought and served at RAF Biggin Hill during both world wars.
She quoted the words of Squadron Leader Geoffrey Wellum (the youngest pilot to fly in the ‘Battle of Britain’):
“It’s not about medals, it’s not about thank yous, but it is nice to be remembered, because being remembered includes everyone who fought, flew and served in the ‘Battle of Britain’, and that is all we ask—to be remembered”
The Committee heard that very positive feedback had been received concerning the chapel and the various exhibitions, and were provided with the following statistical information:
The business plan had estimated that 1442 people would pay for a ticket during the first three weeks of opening, but the number of people buying a ticket during this period was actually 3677. It had been estimated that during the first three weeks, the income had been forecast at £9,423.00; the actual income generated was £21,846. It had also been estimated that during this period the shop would sell items to the value of £937.00, but the actual value of sales was much greater at £11,500. Finally, it had been estimated that during this period, the café would turn over £3953.00, but the actual figure was nearly £7k.
There had been much radio and television coverage as well, including BBC Radio 4, Radio London, ITV, BBC National News, London Live and Forces TV. It was estimated that if all forms of media communication were taken in to account than an estimated 8m people had been reached.
Local residents had been targeted during the first week, and there had been two parades from the local Air Cadets. There had also been a good double page feature from the Times.
Ms Davey said that her favourite activity was participating in a daily act of remembrance, where a page was turned in the Book of Memorial and a biography was read. Tuesdays was being kept for group bookings, and until the end of July two group bookings per day had been made. There had been an influx of local people who were volunteering to help, speak of their own experiences, and were bringing in various objects.
Ms Davey referred to Keith Ogilvie, who had taken part in the ‘Great Escape’. A letter from Mr Ogilvie was in the collection. His son living in Canada had become aware of the letter and so was travelling from Canada to see the letter and other exhibits. Additionally, a delegation visited from the Imperial War Museum, and the delegation included the Museum’s Director.
Ms Davey expressed her gratitude to the Council and to Mr Brand and his team, for all of the help and support that they had given.
A Member asked Ms Davey if she was going to increase staffing levels. Ms Davey responded that in line with the business plan they would be looking to retain their core staff. It was possible to support current staff numbers with casual staff if required. A discussion took place as to how the initial momentum and interest could be maintained going forward.
The Chairman thanked Ms Davey for her presentation and her forward thinking. He also thanked Cllr Benington for his hard work as the Council’s representative to the Trust.
RESOLVED that the update on the Biggin Hill Memorial Museum Trust is noted.