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Meet the team

What does it take to run Whitby Museum? A large number of volunteers, supported by six part-time members of staff and a board of trustees working hard alongside each other whilst enjoying their jobs.

The museum has been run by Whitby Literary and Philosophical Society since its foundation in 1823. The Society is a registered charity and is overseen by a board of trustees.

Our volunteers undertake a vast array of roles from collection curators to archives; from library work to reception duties. We wouldn’t be able to operate without their dedication and support.

The Library and Archive has its own team of dedicated volunteers overseeing the collection and providing help with research enquiries both in person and online. If you have a research enquiry, email library@whitbymuseum.org.uk

Vital to the smooth running of the museum are our six part-time members of staff. You may see them on your visit.

Staff

  • Hazel Wright

    Museum Manager

    Our museum manager oversees the smooth running of the museum as well as being involved with marketing; education; bookings and events. To contact the manager please email manager@whitbymuseum.org.uk

  • Denise Gildroy

    Registrar

    The registrar is responsible for our wonderful collection, she works closely with our team of volunteer curators to ensure that the artefacts are kept in the best possible conditions and displayed and interpreted to the best advantage. For collection-based enquiries, please email registrar@whitbymuseum.org.uk

  • Sarah Porteus

    Administrative Assistant

    The newest member of our team, the administrative assistant gives much needed support to our manager and registrar. She is also responsible for our social media content.

  • Sheila Parker, Amanda Mason, Emma Gates, Wendy Havelock and Bidi Iredale

    Reception Team

    Our knowledgeable reception team supported by volunteers work hard to give you the best possible visit, welcoming you as you arrive and answering any questions you may have.

Trustees

  • David Rodwell (Chair), Alison Roberts, Sarah Booth, Wendy Price, Ruth Smith, Sue Morton, Colin Pyrah, Rob Williams, Robert Smith, Penny Cockill, Gregory Pipe

    The board of trustees of the Whitby Literary and Philosophical Society are elected by it’s members. They ensure that the museum and the charity as a whole are run efficiently, upholding charity and museum standards. They also strive to move the museum forward and to continue to hold the collection safely in trust for the people of Whitby.