Crewe Heritage Trust's long-serving Chair Gordon Heddon has stepped down after seven years, with the experienced Rob Wykes replacing him.

Since becoming Chair in 2019, Gordon has helped guide Crewe Heritage Centre through a period of significant change and growth.

This has been seen through strengthening its governance, supporting its strategic development and helping secure its future as Crewe's museum and a great day out for visitors of all ages.

Gordon's involvement in heritage preservation spans more than four decades.

Alongside his work with Crewe Heritage Centre, he has played a leading role at Llangollen Railway, serving both as Chair and now as President.

Prior to his heritage work, he enjoyed a career with the Forestry Commission.

Having reflected on what has been achieved in recent years and his personal circumstances, Gordon has decided that now is the right time to step down as Chair.

Gordon told Nub News: "I have now been Chairman for seven years during which time there have been very significant changes to the operation of the Centre in terms of the management and strategic direction compared to the old days.

"I could not have managed these important changes without the support, help and encouragement from my fellow Trustees, management staff and volunteers, and for that my sincere thanks.

In my years at the centre, I firmly believe that we have been fortunate to have had a wonderful volunteer workforce and management team. Long may it continue."

While stepping down as Chair, Gordon will remain a Trustee, allowing the Trust to continue to benefit from his considerable experience, knowledge and passion for railway heritage.

The trust is delighted to announce the appointment of Rob Wykes as its new Chair.

Rob brings more than 30 years of experience in the charity sector and is well known across Crewe for his leadership of St Paul's Centre.

During his time as Chief Executive, he helped grow the organisation's support for local people through a wide range of community services, developing projects that have provided hope, confidence, opportunity and dignity for thousands of residents.

Having already served as a Trustee of Crewe Heritage Trust, Rob has developed a strong understanding of the organisation and its ambitions for the future.

Rob said: "Gordon has provided exceptional leadership during a period of enormous change and growth for Crewe Heritage Centre.

"On behalf of the Trust, I would like to thank him for his commitment, determination and vision over the past seven years.

"Crewe Heritage Centre has an important role to play in preserving and sharing the story of our town.

"I'm honoured to take on the role of Chair and look forward to working with our trustees, staff and volunteers as we continue to build on the strong foundations that Gordon has helped create."

Rob's extensive experience in the charitable sector, deep roots in the local community and collaborative approach will help support the continued growth and development of Crewe Heritage Centre for the benefit of visitors, volunteers and the wider community.

As the Crewe museum looks to the future, the trust says this is an "exciting opportunity" to continue building on the progress of recent years.

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