PRESS RELEASE
Gosport Heritage Generator
Investing in the future of Gosport’s heritage
Gosport Heritage Trust launches to build on 30 years of dedication to local heritage
A group of history minded people from Gosport have come together to launch a new charitable organisation and pay thanks to those who have made the annual Gosport Heritage Open Days festival a massive success for three decades.
They are calling for likeminded individuals and organisations to get involved as members, volunteers and event organisers!
Celebrating Gosport’s Rich Heritage
Gosport pioneered heritage events in 1992, leading into the launch in 1994 of Heritage Open Days as now the largest festival of culture and history in England. Each year since, Gosport have been running one of the most vibrant and active local celebrations of heritage.
Development Project Funded
Over recent months the ‘GHODs: Transforming for Future Fitness’ project has been running, born out of concern that as key people move to enjoy their retirement, the festival may be at risk. This project was possible due to a grant from Gosport Heritage Generator, run by Hampshire Cultural Trust. Supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Gosport Borough Council.
Gosport Heritage Trust Founded!
The exciting outcome is that the Gosport Heritage Trust was formally established on 28th July 2026 and is now awaiting acceptance as a Registered Charity. But be assured the GHODs festival will remain as the new organisation’s primary focus. Gosport Heritage Trust will also be able to create or support other heritage projects in the Gosport area all year-round.
Show Your Support or Get Involved
How might you help the new Gosport Heritage Trust to make this amazing free heritage festival even better in 2027? Chat to us during Gosport HODs this year, 11-20 September, to find out more.
The call is out for those passionate about the history, heritage and Gosport to get involved in this new exciting and dynamic organisation.
Quote from Heather Whitewood, New Trustee
Gosport Heritage Open Days wouldn’t exist without the hard work, leadership and dedication of my friend Terry Rhodes. I feel very strongly that we owe it to her and everyone else who has supported this festival over the past 30 years, to make sure it is here for years to come.
Quote from Lucy Grodie, Project Consultant
A big thank you to everyone who has supported making sure that the impact of Gosport Heritage Open Days continues for a long time to come. Let’s also not forget the people of Gosport and players of the National Lottery without which this project could not have happened.
Contact the project team at: transform@gosportheritage.co.uk Call Lucy 07946 00388
Gosport Heritage general contact: info@gosportheritage.co.uk Call Terry 07932 732865