“Time to move on,” said outgoing Trust Chair Alison Galvin-Wright when asked about her decision to stand down. “It’s been a very active and satisfying seven years as Chair,” she added, noting that so many parts of the House have now been restored and so much effort had been put into “ensuring the House is fit for future generations and we, as custodians, can pass it on for others to enjoy.”
“Over the years it has been a great pleasure to work alongside changing Trustees, Staff and Volunteers. I have watched as The Merchant’s House became important to everyone who was involved with it. It now is a destination to visit whilst being enjoyed by the local community.
“But times are moving on and the Trust is doing the same. With Trustees contributing their specialised skills and a good and enthusiastic team of staff and volunteers the future looks bright and I feel it is the right time to stand aside.”
Alison has led the charity through an important period of development and community engagement, helping to preserve the House as a much-loved part of Marlborough’s heritage and culture. “The Merchant’s House has always been a labour of love,” she noted, adding: “I’m incredibly proud of what the team has achieved and am confident that the right person will be excited to take on the opportunity to lead the next stage of the journey.”
Alison has been involved with the Merchant’s House for the past twenty + years. Initially in a primarily fund-raising role, then latterly as Chair. Alison’s late husband, Jeffrey Galvin-Wright was also inspirational in designing and creating the 17th century style garden which has brought further pleasure to visitors.
Who will follow Alison in this important role? The process of succession is now in hand and the Trust welcomes expressions of interest from individuals who live locally or have strong ties to Wiltshire and who share a passion for heritage, education, and civic life.
The Trust is now actively seeking a new Chair to take over leadership of the Board of Trustees. The voluntary role offers a unique opportunity to help shape the future of one of Wiltshire’s most important and atmospheric heritage sites. “The Chair of the Merchant’s House Trust is more than a governance role,” said Trustee Guy Deatker. “It’s a chance to help keep a piece of Marlborough’s history alive and to lead a small, passionate team at the heart of the community.”
For more information on the Chair role or to arrange a confidential conversation, please contact trustmanger@themerchantshouse.co.uk or visit https://themerchantshouse.co.uk.
Alison will be missed and the history of her time and achievements as Chair of the Trust will become embedded into the fabric of Marlborough’s most notable gateway to centuries past. “It has not been an easy decision and the Merchant’s House will remain in my DNA. Thank you for your friendship and support.”
June weather in Marlborough – lived up to the tag ‘Flaming June’
