Vote plea for Victorian idyll in Ilkeston

Erewash Museum officials are urging people to vote for it to scoop a major prize – amid plans by the award-winning heritage and culture hub to transform its garden into a Victorian-style Eden that everyone can enjoy.

The Path To The Past project has made the shortlist in a competition run by water giant Severn Trent, which is offering £2,500 of funding plus an army of volunteers like on BBC TV show - DIY SOS.

But residents need to vote for it to win. The ballot closes on Thursday 12th December – and can be found here: Lets vote | NeighbourGOOD scheme | Severn Trent Water

In an online video explaining the history of Dalby House - a former grand residence in Ilkeston which is now home to the Erewash Museum - Cultural and Heritage Assistant Georgia Haney said: “The Path To The Past project aims to regenerate this area of the garden back to its former glory – the way it would have looked in the Victorian era when the museum was home to the Maltby family.

“We need the help of the Severn Trent NeighbourGOOD scheme to help us complete this ambitious project and we need you to vote for us to make that happen.” 

Georgia added that a community gardening hub will be created to maintain the garden as a “lasting legacy”.

Deputy Leader for Erewash Borough Council and Lead Member for Community Engagement, Councillor Becca Everett said: "More than 15,000 visitors a year enjoy our fantastic museum – which relies on volunteers. The project to create a Victorian garden there will make it an even bigger attraction. The museum’s team has done huge research – right down to the sort of plants and shrubbery that were popular more than 100 years ago.

“The proposed garden will be a tranquil haven just a stone’s throw from the town’s Market Place. Please take a few moments to help make it a reality by voting for it online.”

The Erewash Museum, which boasts a café staffed by volunteers, is open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11am to 4pm – with special events held throughout the year.