We are delighted to announce that Fylde DFAS' Tagging the Treasures Poject has been shortlisted for the best research project category in the 2016 Historic England Angel Awards. 

Fylde DFAS were determined to save, share and better store their decaying Town Hall Art Collection, one of the finest in the UK. Volunteers learned how to research and catalogue the Collection and even learned some museum curatorial skills to properly care for it. An online and printed catalogue of the Collection was produced, with images and information about it fully accessible for the first time. Now local people can better understand how important a resource this is and how central it is to the town’s culture and heritage.

"We engaged 150 volunteers, researchers, invigilators at exhibitions, and many more in other activities. Research was undertaken on over 240 artworks, 125 artists and 88 donors. The result was a comprehensive online catalogue, and an abridged printed catalogue. Images and descriptions of the artworks and information about the artists and the donors, some of it accessible for the first time to the public. The project enabled an ambitious programme of diverse and innovative public and community engagement in our local area." Fylde DFAS

Founded by Andrew Lloyd Webber and supported by his Foundation, the Historic England Angel Awards celebrate the efforts of individuals and local groups all over the country who put hours of hard work and enthusiasm into saving derelict or damaged historic landmarks and bringing them back to life. This year, NADFAS is proud to be sponsoring the Best Community Action Project category. 

Andrew Lloyd Webber said: “The Angel Awards celebrate once again the unsung heroes of heritage. I am passionate that our heritage is protected, valued and enjoyed by all." 

Vote for your favourite! 

Historic England is inviting members of the public to vote for their favourite entry: www.historicengland.org.uk/angelawards