Finance has been an issue for some years and the Trust has, over the years, developed new income streams, raised awareness and improved their exhibition areas. The funding received is not enough to continue throughout the year.
A core funding budget of £107,000 is needed in order to pay wages, rent, electricity, insurance, marketing, security, phone, etc. The Council’s Wigtownshire Area Committee has given £32,125 and £6,725 is returned to Dumfries and Galloway Council as rent for the building. The Trust is responsible for all maintenance of the building plus all exhibition materials and upgrades. The dig fields are leased from the General Trustees of Scotland at a cost of £840 per year (however all maintenance is borne by the Trust). Whilst the Council does not charge admission to its own museums the Whithorn Trust cannot afford to do this and it raises £56,000 itself from tickets, tearoom and gift shop.
A Facebook page has already been launched at www.facebook.com/savethewhithorntrust . This has attracted many followers but it was felt that there was a similar need to reach those who do not use Facebook.
One of the big issues is to get the decision makers around the table to discuss a sustainable future. The Trust recognise that there is no simple solution but is looking to all involved to add their support - this way sharing the load. To this end a petition has been launched at http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/save-the-whithorn-trust.html
There are currently 1275 signatures on the petition and I can recommend a visit to the site, not only to sign but to read the comments. These comments cover all aspects - history of the nation, Christian beginnings, archaeology and the importance to the local economy.
So much has already happened over the past two weeks - so more posts to follow!
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