THE ‘wonderful cultural centre and new offices’ at Newton’s Place were praised by Lady Lucy Studholme, High Sheriff of Devon.

The High Sheriff paid a visit to the Newton Abbot Town’s Council’s headquarters and Town Museum in the former St Leonard’s Church.

She was invited for a tour by Newton Abbot Mayor, Cllr Mike Joyce, who greeted her with the Town Crier.

The High Sheriff was presented with some souvenirs, to remind her of her visit to Newton Abbot.

The mayor explained to the High Sheriff how Newton’s Place was first considered as an opportunity by town clerk Phil Rowe back in 2016 and with the support of councillors, what was just idea back then has come to be what it is today, a community hub and museum for everyone in Newton Abbot and district.

Of particular interest to the High Sheriff was the information placed around the building highlighting the past history, including the previous mayoral ensigna, artefacts in and around spanning the years of the council, along with the list of all the sponsorships that supported, what is Newton’s Place.

The High Sheriff was introduced to council officers and staff before being shown around the council offices.

As there was a meeting of the Devonshire Association taking place, the High Sheriff took the opportunity to be introduced to its members, which also gave an opportunity to highlight the resources at Newton’s Place.

The mayor introduced the High Sheriff to the museum’s curator, Dr Charlotte Dixon, who then showed the High Sheriff around the exhibits, explaining the way the museum works and interacts with the various groups that visit.

As can be seen in the photos, The High Sheriff took the opportunity to have several hands on experience.

Lady Lucy later thanked Cllr Joyce, saying: ‘It was a real pleasure to see the wonderful cultural centre and new offices you have made.

‘Charlotte was a delightful and very well informed guide – please give her my grateful thanks and appreciation.

‘And thank you too for the handsome Newton Abbot badge and the paperweight – so thoughtful of you.