A VOLUNTEER who says Kidderminster's carpet museum "made her the person she is today" is "heartbroken" at its impending closure.
Charlotte Blazier started as a volunteer on the handlooms at The Museum of Carpet on Stour Vale Mill when she was just 20 and fulfilled her dream of running craft workshops there.
She said the museum gave her many opportunities as a young person - she completed a summer internship which led to her becoming a part-time staff member on the front desk.
Charlotte said people should "celebrate and treasure" the museum which would have closed a long time ago if not for its dedicated community of "volunteers who work tirelessly to keep its legacy alive."
She said the upcoming closure of the museum on Saturday December 20 due to financial challenges is "heartbreaking."
The 24-year-old said: "I feel incredibly passionate about the museum; it is full of rich history, and we are the only carpet museum in the UK.
"The museum is a beautiful, original, Grade-listed carpet factory, full of history, full of memories."
The former textiles student said people "should care about their local heritage and actively support it" adding "there aren’t many things I can say I’m proud of when it comes to being from Kidderminster, but working at the Museum of Carpet has been one of my greatest joys.
"It isn’t just a museum, it is a community."
The museum is the UK's only one dedicated to celebrating the heritage, art and industry of carpet making.
It is open from 10am till 1.30pm from Tuesday to Saturday.
Charlotte said: "If you can spare the time, it would be great to come down and visit whilst there is still chance.
"It really is a gem! And you HAVE to see the power looms in action, a very rare opportunity, which our volunteers who once worked in the carpet industry demonstrate amazingly!"
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