The Friends of Wrexham Museum
“We are very grateful to Vicky and EssentialsMAG - it really does help to generate interest and attract new people from across the city, and visitors to the region, to attend our lectures.”
Valuing local support with EssentialsMAG
An event promotion case study
The Friends of Wrexham Museum are a passionate group of volunteers dedicated to supporting and celebrating Wrexham’s rich heritage. Their mission is simple but vital - to help the museum preserve and share the stories that connect the community to its past. Through fundraising, events, and advocacy, the Friends ensure that Wrexham’s history remains accessible, engaging, and alive for generations to come.
From Roman artefacts and medieval finds to industrial milestones and modern-day culture, the Friends play an essential role in keeping Wrexham’s story visible. Their contributions help to fund exhibitions, organise lectures, and encourage visitors of all ages to explore the museum’s collections. By combining enthusiasm, knowledge, and community spirit, the group makes the past a living part of Wrexham’s present and future.
That community spirit is clearly reflected in the group’s long-standing relationship with EssentialsMAG. Chair, Sandra Allen, has seen first-hand how the magazine helps to raise awareness of their talks and activities.
“We are very grateful to Vicky and EssentialsMAG - it really does help to generate interest and attract new people from across the city, and visitors to the region, to attend our lectures,” Sandra explains.
As Speaker Secretary, Sandra is responsible for securing engaging speakers and promoting the group’s events, many of which focus on the history and people of Wrexham and North Wales, with occasional forays across the border into Chester.
“We make use of social media and other promotional opportunities,” she says, “but EssentialsMAG reaches so many people who not only receive their copy through their letterbox but also pick it up from places like the Tourist Information Centre. That’s perfect for visitors who might want to learn more about the museum and local history. Although the museum is currently undergoing renovations, it’s wonderful to keep that interest alive ahead of its reopening next year.”
Sandra also values the relationship the group has built with EssentialsMAG’s owner, Vicky Heathfield, over the years.
“We would absolutely recommend EssentialsMAG - it’s a fabulous magazine. I enjoy reading it every month and often share feedback with Vicky on the interesting articles,” Sandra says. “Vicky is so easy to work with and incredibly supportive of our efforts. She’s never refused us space or an article when we’ve needed help promoting our talks, and we’re very grateful for that.”
The Friends also recognise that EssentialsMAG’s reach extends beyond publicity - it helps strengthen their connection with the wider Wrexham community.
“I can’t imagine a time when we wouldn’t want to promote our events through EssentialsMAG,” Sandra adds. “It reaches exactly the audience we want in Wrexham and the surrounding villages. We’re always looking for new members too, so maybe that’s something we’ll work on with Vicky for a future edition - she always has great ideas!”
EssentialsMAG owner Vicky Heathfield is delighted by the partnership:
“The What’s On guide and community features are among the most popular parts of EssentialsMAG. It’s wonderful to see groups like the Friends of Wrexham Museum using the magazine to reach new audiences and keep local heritage thriving. Their work is a perfect example of how community spirit and local media can come together to celebrate the very best of Wrexham.”
For more information about The Friends of Wrexham Museum, please CLICK HERE
