The Elgar Foundation, responsible for the archives of Worcestershire's very own Edward Elgar, has made the decision to relocate the collection to the British Library in London rather than to The Hive in Worcester. This seems to  disregard that crucial local connection in favour of a London institution, contrary to current thinking and practice in the nation's heritage and cultural circles.

Elgar was born, lived for many years, married, died and is buried right here in Worcestershire. The County was the inspiration for a lot of his music. A large part of his archive is currently held at the Elgar Birthplace Museum in Broadheath, Worcestershire but needs to be moved  to somewhere with specialist facilities and staff.

Councillor Lucy Hodgson, Communities Cabinet Member at Worcestershire County Council and others are calling on the Trustees of the Elgar Foundation to revisit their decision as soon as possible and to consider the benefits for the promotion of the collection provided by The Hive where they would be in the care of Worcestershire Archive and Archaeology Service. This service is recognised nationally as an example of good practice and in 2017 was awarded the title of UK Record Keeper of the Year.  We consider that given its location and facilities, The Hive is the most appropriate repository for Elgar material.

Please sign our petition today so we can ensure this key part of Worcestershire's history is kept here in the county, where it truly belongs!

A fundraising page has now been set up to raise enough money to keep the archives in Worcestershire. Click here: https://www.gofundme.com/project-elgarchive