WHITWORTH HISTORY
Our building and park are steeped in Victorian industrial history. Lady Louisa Whitworth, wife of the industrialist Sir Joseph Whitworth, had a vision of creating a place where people could meet for leisure, recreational and educational purposes. The Whitworth is unique in that it is the only surviving Whitworth foundation that continues to operate under the terms of its original endowment.
Click on the portraits to learn more about our founders.
c.1898
View from cricket ground up towards Whitworth Institute
WHITWORTH TODAY
Today The Whitworth operates as a venue for a wide variety of events, all of which help to support the upkeep of the building and extensive park land. The Whitworth is a Charitable Trust dependent on the support of local people. Every penny that comes from the sale of an ice cream in the cafe, or a donation made to us, is reinvested in the building and park.
What we do
Reduce social isolation and loneliness in our community
Create stronger, rewarding relationships in families and local groups
Help people make greener choices and improve the environment
Enhance physical, social and mental well-being of local people
Management Team
Paul Taylor
General Manager
Claire Roberts
Finance Officer
Kim Launert
Events, Sales & Marketing Manager
Tony Bates
Lead Venue Operative
Jayne Wynne
Chef Manager
The Whitworth is also supported by a dedicated, wider team who work incredibly hard behind the scenes to ensure The Whitworth is open 365 days a year.
Our Board of Trustees
As a registered charity The Whitworth operates under the guidance of a Board of Trustees. Our Trustees all hold a variety of skills across a wide range of areas which assist The Whitworth Team in the long-term management of the park and building.
Alan Long
Chair of the Trust
Finance (Chair)
Personnel
Buildings, Safety and Environment
Park Experience and Engagement
Andy Sullivan
Vice-Chair of the Trust
Personnel (Chair)
Buildings, Safety and Environment
Finance
Jonathan Riley
Finance
Park, Experience and Engagement
Simon Gill
Buildings, Safety and Environment (Chair)
Carolyn Curtis
Personnel
Park Experience and Engagement
Andy Murdy
Buildings, Safety and Environment
Dave Oakley
Park Experience and Engagement
Duncan Taylor
Buildings, Safety and Environment
Personnel
Jason Farmer
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