New trustee appointed to Heritage funds

• Heritage Lottery Fund
• National Heritage Memorial Fund

The Minister said:

“I am very pleased that an experienced person like Ronnie Spence will be involved in the Funds in this way. He will be a strong advocate for UK heritage generally and will represent Northern Ireland’s interests strongly.

“Over the years the Heritage Lottery Fund has, through its funding programmes, provided many opportunities to inspire people and encourage their interest. More and more people are getting actively involved in a wide range of heritage issues that are important to them and to their local communities.

“Much has been achieved by the Fund so far. I am sure that the skills and experience which Ronnie Spence will bring will ensure continued success.”

Mr Spence will also serve as a Deputy Chair of the National Heritage Memorial Fund and the Heritage Lottery Fund and will chair the Heritage Lottery Fund Committee for Northern Ireland.

Commenting on his appointment, Ronnie Spence said: “Since the Heritage Lottery Fund’s conception people from all walks of life and from every part of the United Kingdom have had the chance to learn about and celebrate their heritage. In Northern Ireland alone over £100 million has been invested into preserving and protecting our unique heritage.

“Landscapes, parks, museums, historic buildings and community histories have been preserved in what amounts to the largest single injection of resources that our heritage has ever seen.

Despite huge achievements, there is still much to be done and I look forward to taking up my role in protecting our heritage for future generations to enjoy.”