Beamish Museum launches fundraising appeal to secure its future following financial impact of Covid-19

Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, is a charity that relies on visitors for 95% of its income, including ticket sales and catering and retail purchases.

The open air museum is due to reopen on Thursday, July 23 – but has faced financial hardship as result of being closed since March because of the Covid-19 outbreak.

Now Beamish is appealing for support to help get up and running again and secure its future for generations to come.

The museum, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, is appealing for donations via its website.

Rhiannon Hiles, Beamish’s Deputy Director, said: “The coronavirus pandemic has had a huge impact on the museum and we hope that people can help by making a donation – we’re incredibly grateful for any support people can give.

“As a charity, 95% of our income is from visitors.

“Due to the coronavirus pandemic, we’ve had no visitors since March, through some of what would usually be our busiest months of the year, which has had a major impact.

“We’re extremely proud to have been a part of our region for the past 50 years and we are working hard on our plans to welcome visitors once again.

“We know these are difficult times for everyone but whatever people can do to help is hugely appreciated, it really does mean such a lot to us.”

People can also support the museum by becoming a Friends of Beamish member, buying or renewing a Beamish Unlimited Pass or giving a gift voucher.

The museum has also launched a new online shop selling unique Beamish items.

As it reopens, the safety of visitors, staff and volunteers is the top priority, and additional health and hygiene measures will be in place across the museum site.

Entry will be by pre-booked time slot for all visitors, and the opening of exhibits will be based on Covid-19 safety guidance.

More details will be announced later this month.

To make a donation or find out more about supporting Beamish, visit www.beamish.org.uk

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