Volunteer Lorraine Ellis, Chairman Chris Hoggart, Manager Simon Parsons & Volunteer Lynne Smith at Rye Heritage Centre

One of Rye’s top tourist attractions faces a challenging future thanks to failing equipment, falling visitor numbers, and the cost-of-living crisis. The charity that runs the Rye Heritage Centre, home to the famous Rye Town Model, says it’s just about breaking even and is now appealing for more volunteers and support from the town. 

In this week’s edition of Ryecast, James Stewart has been talking to Manager Simon Parsons and Chairman Chris Hoggart about the difficulties they face.  There’s more on the fascinating history of the model and a look ahead to future plans. Volunteers Lynne and Lorraine explain why they love meeting visitors to the Centre, and  a mother from Paris shows  her daughter the model thirty years after her first visit. 

If you’d like to volunteer at Rye Heritage Centre, ask for manager Simon Parsons at reception on the Strand Quay in Rye.