Statement from Caroline Lucas MEP

COGGES MANOR FARM – December 2008

I am extremely pleased to hear that the Community Enterprise Group have been successful in their bid to secure the future of Cogges Manor Farm and to keep the museum in local ownership

I welcome the forming of a new charitable trust with all the additional funding opportunities this will bring, as well as the opportunity to implement the many good ideas that have come from the Community Enterprise Group.

It has been encouraging to see the high level of local support for this wonderful resource and I am sure that this support, and the attendance rate, will increase as the Enterprise Group’s inspiring objectives are realised.

The dedication and commitment of the individuals who have worked to secure the future of the farm clearly highlights its value as a community resource.  I very much look forward to a financially viable enterprise, following the implementation of the plans to use the site for wider rural skills and environmental opportunities, as well as a small local enterprises and organisations.

I wish the farm well for the future.