Sir John Whittingdale, Member of Parliament for Maldon, invited Lord Mendoza, Chair of Historic England, to visit two of the nationally important heritage sites in the Maldon District (July 19).

Both sites, Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome and Thomas Plume's Library, have received significant financial support from Historic England. 

Lord Mendoza was accompanied by Tony Calladine, East of England Director of Historic England.

Lord Mendoza visited Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome and was shown round by Chair of the Trustees, Martyn Gill, with Trustee, Sarah Threlfall and Chief Executive, Ian Flint. 

Historic England has previously given almost £600,000 of funding to Stow Maries and is continuing to provide support towards repairs.

Lord Mendoza also visited Thomas Plume's Library in Maldon and was shown round by Librarian, Helen Kemp, and Mayor of Maldon and Chair of Trustees, Andrew Lay. 

Tony Calladine, John Whittingdale, Andrew Lay, Lord Mendoza and Helen Kemp (left to right)

The Grade I listed building received a £68,000 grant from Historic England in 2021 for repairs to the ceiling of the library,  

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This helped to protect the Library's collection of rare books and manuscripts, being one of the oldest public libraries in England.

Sir John Whittingdale said: "We are very lucky to have two such incredible heritage assets in the District, the importance of which is reinforced by Lord Mendoza's visit. I am hugely grateful to him and the Regional Director for coming to visit and for the continuing support of Historic England."