Jam company plan for tea room at arena (From Gazette)

Jam company plan for tea room at arena

FAMOUS jam-maker Wilkin and Sons wants to open a tea room at the site of Colchester’s Roman circus.

Bosses at the Tiptree company have made preserves for decades, and now they want to help preserve one of Britain’s most exciting archaeological finds.

They are interested in adding to their chain of three tea rooms, in Tiptree, Dedham and Heybridge, by setting one up at the proposed heritage centre.

Campaigners hope the company will kit out the cafe and pay rent to help fund maintenance of the building and improve historical displays.

Ian Thurgood, joint managing director of the company, said: “We think it’s absolutely vital this important part of our national history is saved for future generations, and we’re excited about the prospect of a Tiptree tea room in Colchester’s Roman circus.”

Mr Thurgood is planning to meet the Colchester Archaeological Trust to discuss how the scheme would work.

Campaign fundraising manager Isobel Merry said: “I’m sure the prospect of a gorgeous Tiptree tea shop in Colchester might encourage people to donate even more generously to the cause.”

To make a pledge, call Isobel Merry on 07891 234274 or see www.romancircus.org