Partially sighted museum volunteer has won national award

Lizzie Wiscombe, who has been volunteering at Lyme Regis Museum for more than a decade, was named the joint winner of the Marsh Volunteering Award for the South West for her contribution to museum learning.

The Marsh Awards for Volunteering, presented by the Marsh Charitable Trust, recognise the exceptional efforts of volunteers across the country in the fields of science, ecology, conservation, heritage, literature, and volunteering.

Ms Wiscombe, who is partially sighted, travelled to the British Museum on September 23 to receive her award from Brian Marsh OBE and British Museum trustee Clarissa Farr.

She was accompanied by her guide dog Baden, fellow volunteer Lin Paterson, and museum director British Houseago (Image: Alastair Fyfe/FyfePhoto)

She was accompanied by her guide dog Baden, fellow volunteer Lin Paterson, and museum director British Houseago.

Ms Wiscombe regularly welcomes visitors and groups to the museum, delivers living history sessions, mentors and trains new volunteers, and assists with museum events such as Halloween and fossil polishing.

In her spare time, she crafts Dorset buttons, which she donates to the museum shop to sell.

When the film Ammonite was filmed in Lyme Regis in 2019, starring Kate Winslet as Mary Anning, Ms Wiscombe became the British star's unofficial voice coach, helping her perfect the Dorset accent.

Bridget said: "Lizzie is a remarkable role model and stalwart volunteer.

"Despite many challenges, she has an outstanding positive attitude, is a resolute and dependable volunteer and invaluable member of our team.

"We are so delighted that her dedication has been recognised with this prestigious award."

Jonathan Evans, chair of the trustees at Lyme Regis Museum, said: "It’s great to see this well-deserved recognition for Lizzie herself and also for the invaluable volunteer team at Lyme Regis Museum.

Ms Wiscombe and her dog, Baden (Image: Alastair Fyfe/FyfePhoto)

"Smaller independent museums such as ours could not survive without the support of our volunteers who staff the front desk, conduct research, aid with curation and help with a wide range of other activities.

"Our volunteers come from very diverse backgrounds and all bring their experience and energy to the museum team.

"Congratulations Lizzie (and Baden)!"

Lyme Regis Museum is always keen to welcome friendly and enthusiastic people to their team – no experience is necessary.

To find out more, contact the museum on 01297 443370 or just pop in for a chat.