Dronfield Heritage Trust was delighted to hear the news that the barn rescue and renovation project was voted outright winner as top heritage project for 2016 by the Heritage Alliance against all-comers.
The prestigious award was presented to Mike Slinn. Mike was trust chairman and project leader for 13 years from 2003-16. He was presented the award by Loyd Grossman, Heritage Alliance chairman in London to mark Heritage Day on December 1st. Nominated by the Architectural Heritage Fund, Mike said he was pleased to accept the award on behalf of the hundreds of volunteers and supporters who have worked tirelessly and donated generously to ensure delivery of this challenging project.
Presenting the award, Loyd Grossman said: “As funding tightens, we are crucially dependent on volunteers to save and cherish heritage that would otherwise be lost. Mike Slinn’s work at Dronfield Hall Barn shows how successful heritage projects have the potential to transform the communities around them.”
Alan Powell who took over as trust chairman in March 2016 said “without Mike’s determination to overcome all obstacles the project just would not have happened.”
Mike Slinn (R) after receiving the award
The effort of the barn’s 100-strong team of volunteers has also been recognised recently by the Derbyshire Heritage Awards. The barn was highly commended in the Best Volunteer Project. The achievement was remarkable, said the judges, due to the project being so new.
It is testament to the many volunteers who freely give their time, in all areas of the project. The Friends Group, gardeners, stone-wallers, quilters, walks team members and stewards have all helped to make the barn a continued success.
There is constant work required to keep this historic building open to the community so we are always looking out for more volunteers to join us. If you are interested in joining our friendly and passionate team, contact Maria at dronfieldheritagetrust@outlook.com.
