Etches Collection awarded Designated Status by Arts Council England

We are very proud to annouce that our amazing Museum has been officially awarded Designated Status by Arts Council England for our collection of Jurassic Marine life. We are so proud of this achievement in gaining this national quality accolade!!

The Designation Scheme is mark of distinction that celebrates nationally and internationally significant collections held in England’s non-national museums, libraries and archives. Our award proves that we deliver the highest standards, and that the museum is committed to the continued recognition and promotion of our remarkable collection for the future.

Steve Etches MBE commented: “We once led the world in palaeontology and in Britain it has become somewhat of a forgotten science, but there is still pioneering work to be done to unlock our hidden secrets. The fact we have received designated status highlights the importance of the collection not only for academic and educational purposes but also, will hopefully enable the legacy of The Etches Collection to be future proofed for the benefit of all.”

Dr. Stella Butler, Chair, Designation Panel, said: “The Designation Scheme plays a critical role in raising the profile of nationally and internationally significant collections throughout England. I’m delighted that the scheme is recognising The Etches Collection, a diverse and globally significant collection of marine fossils, and hope this spotlight safeguards it for the enjoyment and enrichment of many generations to come”