Mills light up for heroes

Bondholder Cromford Mills has joined thousands of families in the rainbow trail around the country with their own rainbow light display.

The Derbyshire heritage attraction projected a rainbow light display on one of their historic mill buildings and shared it with everyone on social media.

Simon Wallwork, Chief Executive of Cromford Mills said: “The rainbow trail is about spreading hope and uplifting people’s spirits. We think it is important to say thank you to all those key workers and NHS staff who are working hard to protect us in these difficult times, as well as everyone who is staying home to save lives.’

Like many visitor attractions across the country, Cromford Mills has closed its gates to help stop the spread of COVID-19, cancelling 50 events to date and furloughing over 30 members of staff in the process. They now rely solely on social media to engage creatively with their visitors and are posting a range of light-hearted and informative content to try to keep spirits up. Conscious of their cancelled educational programme, they are also developing free online learning resources on their website for families. Follow the learning link on Cromford Mills’ website to access learning from home, primary and secondary resources.

Cromford Mills have launched a new fundraising campaign asking for Heritage Heroes to support them while they are closed. Hannah Steggles, Head of Heritage, explains: ”Cromford Mills was rescued from demolition in the 1970s by a group of determined volunteers who formed The Arkwright Society, our first Heritage Heroes. The Arkwright Society has looked after the site ever since and turned it into a thriving visitor attraction and small business hub. Now more than ever, we need Heritage Heroes from all over the country to help us weather this storm.”

Become a Heritage Hero today by following the donation or membership links on Comford Mills’ website.