In a drama-charged evening at Alford Manor House, the endangered museum graced the stage three times, winning the People's Choice Award, the Lincolnshire County Council (LCC) Cleanliness Award and a high commendation in the Inspiration for Best Special Project.

Receiving strong support from the crowd, Church Farm even had guests sitting with crossed fingers as the coveted Museum of the Year was announced.

Although Lincoln-based St Katherine's took out the top gong, there was still a sense of jubilation at the Church Farm table.
"It shows that people want us. People love Church Farm," said volunteer Joan Burkin.

"We will never, ever be shut down. It's time to go down a different path and become independent.

In the People's Choice Award, Church Farm received more than double the votes of its nearest contender, taking the mantle for the third year running.

Situated two seats away from LCC Head of Heritage Jonathan Platt, Skegness-based district councillor John Byford at one stage yelled: "Don't shut it down then."

Mr Platt, representing LCC which is withdrawing funding from the site, was later heard admitting the night had been embarrassing for him.

Host Alford Manor House not only took out an award for its youth work, but manager Sara Blair-Manning gave a rousing speech to sum up the night.

"I realise that no-one in this room personally wishes to be implementing these (funding cuts)," said Mrs Blair-Manning.

"We must find more creative and entrepreneurial ways to survive. Other partnerships are available."

Lincolnshire Tourism chief executive Mark Etches was in attendance and said he recognised an 'awful lot of people' were fond of Church Farm and that he was personally impressed by the site's work.

Plans for the independent future of Church Farm are now progressing, with potential directors to be addressed on August 17.

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