Budgetary cuts have been a feature of the Hampshire Cultural Trust ever since it was created in 2014 and archaeology and local history have been hit hard.

Following the closure of Westbury Manor Museum, Fareham, in 2024, the existential spotlight has been focused on the Curtis Museum, Alton and Andover Museum and the Museum of the Iron Age, but there is some good news to report from both localities.

At Alton, the Curtis Museum Community Partnership has secured a one-off grant to support the museum’s operation in 2027-28. The future of the Andover Museum and Museum of the Iron Age has been secured until March 2029, following a joint £150,000 funding package approved in September 2026 by the Andover Town Council and Test Valley Borough Council.

Your continuing support for either of these venues would be welcome.

The Curtis Museum, Alton, facing an uncertain future.