Up-to-date computers . . . at last

Up and running . . . Saddleworth Museum curator Peter Fox starts one of the new computers watched by Pradoray’s Dave Macdougall

A Much-loved museum has made a leap into the 21st century with the help of a dedicated team of locals.

Peter Fox, curator of Saddleworth Museum in Uppermill High Street, needed a modern IT support system to hold its growing collections.

A local college has donated five, almost-new, computers, backed by a £600 donation from Saddleworth Round Table.

Now computer expert Dave Macdougall, from Pradoray in Grasscroft, has sent in a team of engineers to get the computers up and running.

They have installed an anti-virus system, a new wireless network and new keyboards.

Mr Fox, thanking everyone for their help, said: “Volunteers have photographed and scanned over 10,000 items in the museum collections and added 12,000 records to a database.

“This work is enabling people to use and view our collections even though they are not on display.

“The worry, without good IT, was that there was always potential of losing work — our existing computers had become dated.”

He added: “I approached Dave and he talked to Round Table and they came up with some much-needed funding for the venture.”

Dave, who recently installed a system for Oldham Promobility, said: “I am delighted to help and I have agreed to support their computer network.

“Saddleworth Round Table has supported the museum on a yearly basis enabling them to carry out maintenance work. This was paid for by beer festival funds.”

Mike Coulter, in charge of funding Round Table causes, said “The museum is a great cause and once again were are happy to support the community.”

Councillor Brian Lord said: “I am absolutely delighted to hear of the very generous support given to the museum. It is a huge asset to our community and that is why the parish council has been happy to assist it and is willing to continue to do so.”

Saddleworth Round Table is seeking to support other local initiatives with cash they raised from their legendary Beerwalk. To apply, contact Mike Coulter on 0161 622 0666 or Dave Macdougall: 01457 819 320.