AIM has received the sad news that Sir Neil Cossons OBE, AIM President, died over the weekend aged 87.
In a storied and influential career across the heritage sector, Sir Neil was instrumental in the establishment of AIM and its chair from 1978 to 1983. He led the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust from 1971 as its first director before moving on to run the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich in 1983. From 1986 to 2000 he worked as director of what is now the Science Museum before becoming Chair of English Heritage until 2007.
Knighted in 1994 for services to museums and heritage, Sir Neil was a lifelong and passionate supporter of independent museums and had served as AIM president since 1983.
AIM Director Lisa Ollerhead
“We were saddened to hear this news and extend our deepest sympathies to Sir Neil’s family, friends and colleagues. Sir Neil was a true champion of our sector and of independents in particular.
AIM and our members are hugely grateful for his many years of generous advice, support and guidance; his legacy is extraordinary. As AIM nears its 50th anniversary next year we will ensure that legacy continues and his considerable role is marked accordingly.”
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