Posted on 13th Jul
The Town Mayor of Newark, Laurence Goff, visited Magnus Church of England Academy to visit its archives.
Archivist Roger Peacock said: “Coun Goff has a special interest in and knowledge of the local history of Newark town and all its assets, and the visit to the archives was of particular interest to him.
“The mayor was very interested to see the historic uniforms and the large Magnus Bible, which was formerly used in the main hall to provide lectern readings for acts of worship.”
During his visit, the mayor was also taken on a brief tour of the academy, where he had the opportunity to meet staff and students.
Roger added: “He found this visit a most enjoyable and moving occasion and spent much of the time sharing his own knowledge with staff and students, as well as appreciating the archived artefacts.”
Coun Goff, who moved to Newark 25 years ago from Crystal Palace, said: “It’s the first time I have visited the Magnus archives, though I have visited the academy in the past at special events in my capacity as a first aider.
“I am very interested in the archives. I have noticed many notable former students in the lists, including Colonel Sam Derry and cricketer Chris Grant, who I knew personally, and so many of these photographs and documents are of great interest to me.
“I feel very honoured to be able to look at the collection. Our heritage is important and Newark’s heritage is rich, making this archive an important record.
Newark is a great town and fantastic place to visit, and I am pleased that the academy and its long history is being preserved.”
At the end of his visit, the mayor presented the academy with a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. In turn, he was given two copies of former Magnusian W. Jackson’s history book, Newark Magnus: The Story Of A Gift.
The academy’s executive principal, Anna Martin, said: “It was wonderful to meet the Town Mayor of Newark, Coun Laurence Goff, and to hear him speak about his own interest and knowledge of Newark’s history.
“I hope he enjoyed looking at the artefacts we keep in the Magnus archives and would welcome a return visit in future.
“We would also like to thank the mayor for his wonderful gift to the academy, a portrait of the Queen, which we intend to display in our Warburton building, where our Combined Cadet Force are based.”
