Despite the unfolding economic crisis and fears for the worst, 2008 was the most successful year for Bletchley Park since it opened as a visitor attraction in 1992, in terms of visitor numbers, financial donations, media coverage and high profile events.
"After years of struggling to remain open and keep the historic buildings in good repair, we have been overwhelmed by the level of public and media support for our campaign to safeguard Bletchley Park for future generations" says Simon Greenish, director, Bletchley Park.
"I would like to extend a personal thank you to everyone who has given their support to our campaign. We still have a long way to go and will continue to work tirelessly to raise the funds needed to secure the future of Bletchley Park but we are hopeful that with continued public support, the successes of 2008 can be repeated, if not exceeded in 2009."
Increased awareness of the campaign through extensive UK and international media coverage and the tireless activities of Bletchley Park's small team of staff and around 120 volunteers, was directly responsible for a 40 per cent increase in visitor numbers during 2008 to over 80,000 people. On-line donations via www.bletchleypark.org.uk soared and a number of significant private donations were received. A grant of £330,000 from English Heritage in November 2008 was a landmark for the Park, helping to secure the roof of the Mansion and some of the building's delicate interiors.
The most high profile event of 2008 was a visit by Their Royal Highnesses, The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall, who opened a new 'From Bletchley, With Love' exhibition about Ian Fleming in July. In his speech, HRH The Prince of Wales emphasised the importance of maintaining the unique heritage site and lent his own support to the restoration project saying:
"You are the keepers of one of the greatest British success stories. Workers here had ensured that this country finally emerged victorious from World War Two."
Promoting Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment's launch of the first six Bond films on Blu-ray Disc at Bletchley Park in October, Sir Roger More also lent his support to the cause, agreeing with journalists that the government should step in to provide funds for its preservation.
Early in 2008 - unknown to Bletchley Park - a private individual set up an on-line petition on the Government petition website to 'Save Bletchley Park'. Huge public support catapulted the petition to the number five slot, where it has remained for a number of months. Currently it has been signed by nearly 20,000 people. http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/BletchleyPark/.
In 2009, Bletchley Park will be applying for a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
For visitor information, contact 01908 640404, info@bletchleypark.org.uk, or go to www.bletchleypark.org.uk
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