He's cute isn't he ? Well, we assume he is a "he" so he's been named 'Heritage Ted', pictured here at the Rye Heritage Centre down on Strand Quay, planning his forthcoming lockdown tour of the historical sites in and around Rye.
Ted was discovered languishing in a stock room during recent renovations at the Rye Heritage Centre (RHC), dusty, unloved and forgotten about but, after a major spruce up, he's now got a new lease of life, and is proving to be very popular. Alas, at the moment he only has one tee shirt, a bobble hat and a scarf, so new outfits would be welcomed, and his obligatory face mask is currently 'under construction' and will soon make an appearance.
Behind the scenes there is a lot going on at the RHC as the recent grant has enabled essential work to be carried out, and outdated equipment to be replaced. The ground floor has been decorated, cleared of clutter and Covid-19 prepared - ready for reopening in due course, when it's considered safe to do so.
The front window features Richard Adams' "Rye's Heritage" picture which is available to buy as a print (framed, or not) online and in various sizes. We also have postcards and greetings cards available to purchase, and our new range of stock is currently being sourced and updated and will be added to our online shop when available.
Ted's exploits will be online
Having attempted to open twice now, all we can do is wait for the government's "all clear" and the town model room can be opened once more but, until then, you can follow Ted's exploits on Instagram and Facebook as he will shortly be visiting many of the tourist attractions in and around town sporting his unique blue t-shirt as he poses for his next photo opportunity.
Who knows, before too long, perhaps he may have some brothers and sisters available for you to buy online which will help to generate much needed funds and secure the ongoing future of your Rye Heritage Centre for future generations to enjoy.
"Follow the bear" at @ryeheritagecentre and visit the RHC online shop or email your thoughts to heritagecentrerye@gmail.com.
