Sir Gavin Williamson met with Margaret George, the Chair of Staffordshire Heritage Group, to discuss the work of the organisation.
Sir Gavin was keen to learn more about the group’s role in protecting Staffordshire’s history, as well as connecting local history, genealogy, archive and archaeology groups across the county. They discussed the group’s campaign to protect the reading rooms in the William Salt Library, an historic library that contains an extensive collection of rare prints and historic manuscripts.
Sir Gavin also purchased two Staffordshire flags from Margaret after learning about the group’s involvement in developing the official Staffordshire County Flag. The design of the flag was suggested by Staffordshire Heritage Group and incorporates a gold background and a red chevron from the de Stafford family coat-of-arms, alongside the knot, a symbol of Staffordshire used by many of Staffordshire’s public bodies.
Sir Gavin said: "It was a pleasure meeting with Margaret to discuss Staffordshire’s rich and unique history, along with the important work being done by the Staffordshire Heritage Group to preserve it. The design of the Staffordshire County Flag and the ongoing campaign to save the reading rooms at the William Salt Library are just a few examples of the dedication shown by a passionate team of volunteers. Their efforts to protect our collections, buildings, and heritage are invaluable, and I am deeply grateful for their work. I will continue to support them in any way I can."
Margaret George, Chair of the Staffordshire Heritage Group, said: “Sir Gavin was very enthusiastic to hear details of the role of the Staffordshire Heritage Group providing a central hub for historically based groups countywide and especially our part in the development of the official Staffordshire County Flag. He expressed concern regarding our campaign to retain the Reading Rooms within the historic William Salt Library building in Stafford and also offered to make enquiries for a local pony rescue project. I appreciate Sir Gavin giving up his valuable time and offering support for our activities."
