A group of young ‘Heritage Hunters’, encouraging their community to celebrate local heritage, have been chosen to go forward to the finals of the Historic England Angel Awards in London in October, including Josh Aitken-Dunkeld from the Isle of Wight.
Founded by Andrew Lloyd Webber and supported by his Foundation, the Historic England Angel Awards celebrate the efforts of individuals and local groups all over the country who put hours of hard work and enthusiasm into saving derelict or damaged historic landmarks and bringing them back to life.
This year the award categories have been expanded to recognise the inspirational young people who are helping to protect, save and share their local historic places.
Shortlisted for ‘Best Contribution by a Young Person’ is Josh Aitken-Dunkeld. Josh first joined the Friends of Frank James- a group dedicated to saving the derelict Grade II listed hospital in East Cowes- when he was just 16-years-old. He quickly became a key member of the group, taking responsibility for digital championing of the site. He led the way in highlighting the plight of the building to the public and telling the sad story of Frank James by setting up the website, creating beautiful YouTube videos and running its social media presence. Without these vital communication channels the group would not have been able to gain support locally or reach out to grant giving bodies.
Andrew Lloyd Webber said:
“The Angel Awards celebrate once again the unsung heroes of heritage. I am passionate that our heritage is protected , valued and enjoyed by all. I am particularly thrilled that this year we recognise the increasing role of young people in preserving our heritage. In a year when Westminster has been put on the World Heritage register as a site at risk, it is exciting that this year’s shortlist proves that people of all ages are dedicated to preserving our heritage and doing so in ever more inventive ways.”
Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England, said:
“This year’s shortlist shows that heritage angels come in many guises and all are dedicated to saving and sharing our spectacular historic environment. The impressive young people among those we are celebrating this year show that our historic places speak to all generations and that anyone can get involved in protecting and championing our heritage.”
Article continues below this advertisement
Groups from all the shortlisted entries have been invited to attend the Historic England Angels Awards ceremony at the Palace Theatre in London’s West End which the judges, George Clarke, Emma Bridgewater, historian Bettany Hughes and the Dean of Westminster, John Hall will attend.
Historic England is inviting members of the public to vote for their favourite entry at www.historicengland.org.uk/angelawards.
