Society of Bexhill Museums

Curator Julian Porter said interior works were almost completed. Work on applying the exterior cladding was about to start.

Once the building had been handed over to the society the fitting-out of the two new galleries would follow, together with the other facilities.

The curator suggested that a "soft" opening could take place at about the end of April with the official opening by the society's patron, comedian Eddie Izzard, soon after.

The curator's statement came in the first of a two-part report on progress on the extension.

In the second report, head of fund-raising John Betts brought members up to date by noting the recent 12,600 received from the winding-up of the Association of Bexhill Citizens.

Mr Betts said the Society of Bexhill Museums had more than fulfilled its obligation in the amount it had was contracted to contribute to the project and thanked all the members for their financial support through the various society events.

However, because of inflation, more money was required to furnish the galleries to the standard expected by residents and visitors alike so fund-raising continues.

The annual meeting was held at St Augustine's Hall under the chairmanship of Stella Bellem. The annual report and audited accounts were approved unanimously.

Three vacancies among the directors had occurred with the resignations of Pauline Bullock, Victoria Williams and Sheila Hayes. One nomination had been received and Sarah White was unanimously approved.

It was agreed that the other two vacancies be filled by co-option.

After a refreshment break Stella Bellem gave an illustrated presentation entitled Musing On Museums.