Suggestions have been put forward for where a Norfolk town could host its much sought-after heritage centre.

A heritage centre has been on the cards for Dereham since talks began earlier this year.

Dereham's Heritage Trust held a meeting in February at the town's golf club where unanimous support was given to create a heritage centre for the market town. 

Overwhelming vote in favour of a Heritage Centre at the meeting in February.Overwhelming vote in favour of a Heritage Centre at the meeting in February. (Image: Katie Goodman, Dereham Heritage Trust)
Ray O'Callaghan, Dereham's deputy mayor, is in support of the plans and said the former Sure Start building would be an "excellent place for a heritage centre".

He said: "It's a massive building, loads of history, lots of car parking, owned by Norfolk County Council, or what about the Akaash? A historic old inn originally called the Cattle Market Inn I believe."

The former Sure Start building has been suggested as a possible location for the centre.Ray O'Callaghan suggested the former Sure Start building as a possible location for the centre. (Image: Denise Bradley)
Mr O'Callaghan said the history of Dereham is "absolutely fascinating". 

"For example, how St Withburga built the original church, which is the same site as St Nicholas and the visions she had of the Virgin Mary she had, the civil war, the Zeppelin raid during the world war. And so much more.

Dr Peter Wade-Martins, chairman of the Heritage Trust, said "two very helpful" meetings have since been held with Dereham's mayor, Linda Monument. 

Peter Wade-Martins with a model of the WF Chambers & Son of Dereham shop donated to the DHT.Peter Wade-Martins with a model of the WF Chambers & Son of Dereham shop donated to the DHT. (Image: Katie Goodman, Dereham Heritage Trust)
He said: "The trust has been gathering information about how museums and heritage centres have been organised in other market towns such as Swaffham, Watton, Wymondham, Aylsham and Downham Market.

"My own view is that it would be very difficult for us to create a centre with similar facilities without the active support of Dereham Town Council. 

"Ms Monument is interested in visiting the centres to see what they have achieved."

In the meantime, Bishop Bonners Cottage's museum will be open on September 6, 7, 13 and 14 with free entry.