Friends of Czech Heritage
656. Barbara Peacock
Barbara Peacock is an architectural historian and a founder of ‘The Friends of Czech Heritage’.
Inspired by the beauty of the Czech Republic’s many stately homes, she set about fundraising in order to repair, preserve and enhance historic buildings, gardens and parks in the country. Working with local partners, Friends of Czech Heritage has been involved with thirty conservation projects, organised eleven working parties of mostly British volunteers to work on heritage sites throughout the Czech Republic and has contributed over 500 ‘person days’ of volunteer work at the Château of Červený Dvůr. The internationally renowned architect and designer Eva Jiřičná and MP Greg Hands are patrons of the charity.
In a personal letter to Barbara, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“Your unique work with ‘The Friends of Czech Heritage’ is harnessing British passion for heritage and volunteer power to repair, preserve and enhance the many beautiful historic buildings, gardens and parks across the Czech Republic.
“Across the world British volunteers like you are helping to build a better world for everyone. The Point of Light award is a small thank you on behalf of the whole country, in recognition of your exceptional service.”
Barbara said:
“The Czech Republic is a small country with an outstandingly rich architectural and artistic heritage that was seriously endangered after years of post-war neglect. The determination of the Czechs to restore their patrimony despite a severe shortage of funds inspired the creation of the British charity The Friends of Czech Heritage. I am thrilled and honoured to receive this award from the Prime Minister and to accept it on behalf of all those who have worked so hard to raise funds and instigate many restoration projects, thereby bringing a wider recognition of the Czech cultural heritage.”
Angus Stewart, the Deputy Head of Mission, said:
“I would like to congratulate Barbara on winning the Points of Light Award and thank her for the outstanding contribution she has made to the preservation of Czech heritage, history and culture.”