Heritage Angel Awards - We're Nominated!

We’re delighted to announce that the conservation works at the Shell Grotto have received two nominations in the English Heritage awards scheme Heritage Angels. Conservators Adrian Powell and Rob Smith have been nominated in the Best Craftsmanship category and Grotto owner Sarah Vickery has been nominated for Best Rescue.

Nick Dermott, Heritage Advisor for Thanet District Council, who nominated the conservators commented: “Adrian and Rob’s commitment and passion for the work was beyond the call of duty; working eight-hour shifts doing close work in cramped, damp, underground conditions represents a considerable undertaking.” Grotto owner Sarah Vickery praised the pair for “the care, expertise and integrity they brought to the site”.

Left to Right: Adrian Powell, Friends of the Shell Grotto Trustee Gretchen Cornwall, Thanet District Council’s Heritage Advisor Nick Dermott, Grotto owner Sarah Vickery, Friends of the Shell Grotto Trustee Mandy Wilkins, Rob Smith. Photos courtesy Jake Banfield/Isle of Thanet Gazette.

The nomination for Sarah, made by English Heritage’s Amanda Kearsey points to how she “has worked tirelessly to promote the problems the Grotto faced and to ensure the long-term repair and survival of the Shell Grotto. Sarah is also a dedicated supporter and campaigner for other local heritage projects.”

Fingers crossed for the announcements of the short lists!