M.I.S. Winter Meeting

Monday 23rd February 2009

Bishop’s Palace and Gardens, Wells, BA5 2PD

01749 678691

9.45 amTea and refreshments available

10.00 amApologies for absence

Minutes of last meeting

Matters arising

Chairman’s Comments (AGM and Nominating New Officers)

Secretary/Treasurer’s report (Including correspondence)

Any Other Business

Date and location of next meeting (18th May 2009, location tbc)

10.15 amIntroduction to Bishop’s Palace and its HLF bid

The Palace is currently preparing a lottery bid to redevelop the site and create new exhibitions and interpretation of the City’s heritage.

10.30 amUpdates from regional representatives

MLA SW

The last update from MLA SW before its closure in March 2009 and the impact of this on Somerset’s museums.

SW Hub

Update from the organisation that will be taking over many of the functions of MLA SW.

South West Federation

An update from the largest independent museums group in the SW on their current work and their training days.

11.00 amTouring Exhibition Discussion – Doria Shepherd & Natalie Watson

A chance to see the mini-films, final touring map, leaflets and display boards created for the MiS touring exhibition ‘Explore your Somerset Routes’ which is to be launched at the end of March 2009. Followed by a discussion and a final opportunity for your feedback.

11.30 amTea/Coffee Break

11.45 amWhat is the Victoria County History? – Mary Siraut

A short presentation on the work being done in the county on the 110-year ongoing project initiated by Queen Victoria.

12.05 amReports From Museums – MiS

This is your opportunity to inform the Museums In Somerset group of news from your current activities. This could include your past events, visitor figures, problems and successes, grants received or applied for, openings, awards or press coverage. Reports and feedback on any training received are much appreciated.

Please provide a paper copy or email of your report if possible for inclusion in the next MDO Newsletter.

12.40 pmMuseum Development Officer Update – Natalie Watson

This will be an update on the current progress of various projects and schemes. This will also be a chance to provide feedback on the current format of the newsletter (style, content and frequency etc).

1.00 pmComputers: Help or Hindrance? – Colin Spackman

A general discussion on the use of computers within your museum; what do they do for you?

1.20 pmTreasurers From The Earth – Vicky Dawson

A short presentation on the touring exhibition available to hire for Museums in Somerset on the archaeology of the South West.

1.30 pmLunch

Lunch is not being provided. However, seats have been booked at the on-site restaurant and here you can purchase your own food (details below). Please RSVP for those taking up the offer.

2.15 pmBishop’s Palace Talk and Tour

MiS member are invited to a free guided tour of the site with a volunteer guide.

Notes: Helena Jaeschke, Conservation Development Officer for museums across the SW will be present at the meeting and free to give any advice or information on conservation and environment issues.

The leaflet exchange can also take place throughout the day. If you have any leaflets you want to swap with other museums, please bring them along!

RSVPCould you please inform Natalie Watson whether you would like to attend by contacting;

Somerset Record Office

Obridge Road

Taunton

TA2 7PU

Alternatively email or phone 01823 362849.

MenuThe on-site restaurant is closed to the public on this day and only the following types of food will be available;

  • Homemade soup of the day with a fresh roll and butter (£4.50)
  • Selection of baguettes including Ham salad, Chicken, bacon & salad and Cheddar, onion & tomato (£3.95)
  • Baked jacket potatoes including Bacon & mushroom, Prawns & marie-rose sauce and Cheddar cheese (£5.50)

Directions and Parking

Directions

From roundabout on the A39 and A371 go into Wells along Priory Road.Turn right into Southover, just after the Sherston Inn.Then turn right into Silver Street.This is a no-through road but proceed along Silver Street to the end, until you find the Old Abbey Barn on the left.There is usually free parking around here.Access to the Bishop's Palace Moat is also here. Walk along the moat towards the Cathedral and enter the Palace through the draw bridge across the moat.

Car parks

Use city centre car parks. The Bishop’s Palace is a short walk from all central car parks. Market Place car parking 1 hour max. Parking can also be found on Tor Street, Tor Furlong and Silver Street.