The Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs (FBHVC) has announced plans to provide additional support to Transport Museums that have been hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic during 2020.
Implementing a number of strategic changes within the organisation, the FBHVC has expanded the role of its Director of Archives, Andy Bye, whose work will now include acting as liaison with Museums as they seek to recover from this challenging time.
Andy has been on the Board of Directors for the past year, working on developing archives and supporting member clubs as they manage their own collections. Also a Trustee of the Rootes Archive Centre Trust and having worked within the motor industry – including acting as Quality Director for PSA Peugeot Citroen – he is perfectly placed to help understand and deliver the support that Transport Museums need.
He told us: “Our vital Museums have been hard hit by COVID. Visitor numbers have been reduced due to lockdowns and social distancing measures. The installation of COVID safe infrastructure has been costly in some instances and also, as the average age of volunteers tends to be relatively high, many of the Museums have seen their workforce decreased as people are forced into self-isolation.”
Andy went on to say, “Museums are a vital part of preserving our past and sharing it with generations to come and it is vital we actively work with the sector to ensure its survival – I look forward to engaging with our many Museum members on this journey”
Initial work will include the formation of working groups to share ideas and resources, along with considering how best the FBHVC can promote and create key events and initiatives for the historic vehicle community. They have also developed an interactive map and directory of Transport Museums nationwide, and we’d encourage you to take a look – it can be found at www.fbhvc.co.uk/museums-and-archives
The FBHVC’s announcement follows news that a number of motoring venues, including the historic Brooklands Museum in Surrey, have benefitted from the Government’s Culture Recovery Fund which is a £1.57 billion rescue package to support cultural organisations. Together with Andy Bye’s new role, we’re thrilled that the Museums we all enjoy will be receiving the support they need.
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