MARIA MILLER MP SUPPORTS BASINGSTOKE HERITAGE SOCIETY IN BID TO FIND HOME FOR ARCHIVE
Basingstoke MP Maria Miller visited the Basingstoke Gazette Archive with Debbie Reavell from the Basingstoke Heritage Society.
Maria saw the original printing press, printing blocks and newspapers dating from the 1800s. The Archive is currently housed at Pelton Road and a new home needs to be found when the premises are vacated.
Debbie Reavell commented; “ This is a rare opportunity to take care of a Basingstoke archive which dates back to 1878. It includes print blocks and type and with their cases as well as John Bird’s first print press on which the paper was printed.”
Maria Commented; “ I am supporting the Basingstoke Heritage Society in finding a home for the incredible archive built up by our local paper over the past 150 years. The historical printing press represents freedom of speech, accountability and democracy. The archive is a strong reminder of our great history here in Basingstoke.”
