David Ruffley MP will be a guest speaker at the launch of the Museum of East Anglian Life's (MEAL) fund raising appeal this Friday between 11am and 3pm.

The launch of the MEAL Appeal will take place at an event to be staged in the Abbots Hall and its grounds.

David said:

'The Museum's trustees have put in place an ambitious and imaginative development plan which will transform the Museum into a flagship institution for Stowmarket.

'As MP for Stowmarket I have supported their plans from the outset. I supported their Lottery bid and lobbied the Chief Executive and Board members of the East of England Development Agency to provide assistance to the Museum.

'MEAL cleared the first hurdle with the promise of £1.771 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund and grants to the value of £400,000 have also been pledged. But to secure the Lottery money MEAL still has to raise £430,000.

'It will be a true pleasure to speak at the launch of the MEAL Appeal. This museum has the potential to become a national attraction bringing economic benefit to Stowmarket and neighbouring areas.'