Building on Strong Foundations at Crewe Heritage Centre

Gordon Heddon (Left) has handed over the Chair to Rob Wykes (Right).

Crewe Heritage Trust is celebrating the contribution of long-serving Chair Gordon Heddon as he steps down after seven years in the role, while welcoming Rob Wykes as the Trust's new Chair.

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

His involvement in heritage preservation spans more than four decades. Alongside his work with Crewe Heritage Centre, Gordon 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. He said:

"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.”

The Trust would like to give its sincere thanks to Gordon for his dedication, leadership and unwavering commitment to the Centre over many years. His passion for heritage and belief in the importance of preserving Crewe's unique story have helped shape the organisation visitors know today.

Trustees, staff and volunteers are also looking forward to working alongside Rob as the Centre enters its next chapter. His extensive experience in the charitable sector, deep roots in the local community and collaborative approach will help support the continued growth and development of the Centre for the benefit of visitors, volunteers and the wider community.

As Crewe Heritage Centre looks to the future, the Trust is confident that this transition is not only a moment to celebrate Gordon's contribution, but also an exciting opportunity to continue building on the progress of recent years.

Together with its dedicated trustees, staff and volunteers, the Centre remains committed to preserving, sharing and celebrating Crewe's unique heritage for generations to come.