Broadway museum officially opened by designer

10:00am Saturday 5th April 2008

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BROADWAY basked in glory as the founder of a British furniture chain visited the village to cut the ribbon at the officially opening of The Gordon Russell Museum.

Sir Terence Conran, the man behind Habitat, opened the Russell Square museum on Friday (4) in front of several civic dignitaries, former employees and supporters of the museum.

Mr Conran gave a speech at Russell's of Broadway, who hosted a reception for the event, before the grand opening.

He said: "Let me congratulate everybody who has been involved in getting this museum off the ground. It is an absolute example of intelligent design and craftsmanship.

"Gordon Russell understood how intelligent design added to the quality of people's lives. The way he ran the business was very important indeed and the friendships that he formed."

Mid-Worcestershire MP Peter Luff attended the event and had a look around the museum dedicated to the life and work of Sir Gordon Russell for the first time.

Mr Luff said: "The museum is wonderful. It is really great we are celebrating such a important part of Broadway's history. But it is also great for the future of Broadway too as it is a major tourist attraction. It is exactly what a heritage project should be and will inspire another generation of designers."

Broadway's county councillor Liz Eyre, whose former father-in-law was one of the first Gordon Russell employees, said: "I have a real passion for supporting this museum. I lived for a good nine years surrounded by Gordon Russell furniture and I am going to do everything I can to enhance and support it throughout my life."

Chairman of the Gordon Russell Trust Ray Leigh also gave a speech and said he was delighted' to welcome Sir Terence, who has been a long supporter of the company.