A GRANT for £1,000 has been awarded to the new museum in Liskeard which is to be situated in the refurbished Foresters Hall.

Liskeard town councillors were given the news by town clerk, Brenda Furse, at their monthly meeting. The grant, from the South West Museums Council, follows the purchasing of over £1,000 of storage and conservation of archival material.

At their meeting councillors were told the 'new' roof structure of Foresters Hall is now complete, with the roof slating 98% completed. The walls were finished and over half the slate cladding seen to, and all first fix electric, plumbing and windows were completed.

Discussion had taken place over signs for the museum, and the tourist information centre, which is also to be based in the Hall. Mrs Furse said, hopefully, a lobby will also be provided at the Museum, subject to planning permission.

Royal invite

It is thought that the Museum should be ready to open in September this year, with the official opening in the summer 2002. The advisory curator, Dr Mattingly, said those involved with the project are endeavouring to put on a display in September, but until then things would be kept low-key as the rooms have to dry out thoroughly before the exhibits can be put in place. The building itself will not be completed until after the first week in June.

Prince Charles has been asked if he will open the Museum, but town councillors have been told they are unlikely to receive a reply to their request until the New Year. Members of the property committee heard the Prince has been invited to visit Looe during the same period, and it was hoped he would accept the invitation, especially as his Duchy office is in Liskeard.