Hertfordshire museum takes exhibits to people in 'hands-on'

Museum of Watford has launched Museum on Tour, a scheme designed to share the town’s heritage with residents through creative, interactive activities at community events.

Made possible by funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the programme is part of the Museum of Watford’s commitment to making history engaging and accessible outside its walls.

Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: "Museum on Tour offers something for everyone this summer.

"At the Watford Community Family Fun Day, people can get creative with screen printing, design their own postcards and discover how Watford's historic printing industry helped shape the town through fascinating objects from the museum collection.

"At Herts Pride, visitors can explore Watford's LGBTQ+ stories and take part in activities that celebrate inclusion, community and personal stories."

The first event will take place on August 15 at the Watford Community Family Fun Day, held at King George V Playing Fields.

Visitors will have a chance to learn about the town’s printing heritage. Activities include screen printing, making printed tea towels or tote bags, and creating postcards using stamps, inks and geometric printing techniques. Historic objects from the industry will also be on display.

A week later, on August 22, the museum will take part in Herts Pride at Cassiobury Park.

Attendees will be invited to join a collage activity based on the Proud Watford message, 'A Place Without Prejudice,' exploring the theme of inclusion.

Another activity, 'The Museum of Me,' will encourage visitors to design a model and write a label about a meaningful object, place, or moment from their own life or from Watford’s history.

Mr Taylor said: "Thanks to the support of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and National Lottery players, we're able to bring local history directly into the community. We hope as many people as possible will come along, get involved and enjoy everything the stalls have to offer."