In the 130 years of Tenby Museum's existence, it has changed its name twice; when the Wilfred Harrison Gallery was opened and when the new art gallery was opened.

The trustees of the museum have been discussing whether now is the time to consider another name change, and we would like the views of all those who live in the area.

The museum is an independent charity and relies heavily on income from visitors to allow it to exist and continue to provide a service to the community. Since the full funding of museums, either National or Local Authority and their subsequent 'free entry' status, many visitors are now reluctant to pay to get into our museum, even though we try to make it clear we are an independent museum and do not benefit from such funding.

Also for many people the word museum raises images of a 19th century institution, a gloomy and dull place where there a rows and rows of artefacts, certainly not a place that meets the needs of the local community.

It is our view that the museum is not like that and we try very hard to make the displays up to date, interesting and informative.

So - a dilemma - and we would like your feedback and input!

First of all - should we change the name from Tenby Museum and Art Gallery?

And if so, how do we select a name?

If the feedback is in favour of a name change, then we will invoke a competition, involving the local community - including local schools - to find the best new name for our institution.

Many of you might feel it is best left alone - as it does in fact describe what we are. Your feedback is important to us, so please let us know either by letter or email.

Tenby Museum & Art Gallery, Castle Hill, Tenby SA70 7BP, [email protected]">[email protected].

We look forward to hearing from you. We would appreciate any response by November 30.

Mike Brew

(Curator)