A petition has been launched by the Friends of Kinneil Museum, with the aim of
amassing thousands of signatures in the next few weeks.
Among the first to sign the
document were a group of around 60 visitors who descended on Kinneil Estate on Monday for a guided tour.
Organised by the newly-launched Friends group, the hour-long walk was led by Falkirk Local History Society member Ian Scott. He's been vocal in his support for the retention of the museum, which Falkirk Council is considering closing.
If closure goes ahead, many of the town's Roman treasures from the Antonine Wall could be shipped to Callendar House in Falkirk. Others may go on display at a revamped Hippodrome Cinema, to open in 2008.
During Monday's tour, Ian commented how ironic it was that,
having just visited Rome, he was now standing at the Empire's most
northern outpost.
He said: "On Sunday, I was touring the remains of the Roman forum in Rome. The map outside showed the expansion of the Roman empire and how it grinded to a halt in Bo'ness, where the Romans were thrown out.
"So it was nice to see so many people, of all ages, take time out on Monday to tour Kinneil estate and see the town's rich heritage, which is perceived to be under some threat.
"It's a fantastic place and I was proud to have the opportunity to show people around. I've also joined the Friends of Kinneil group and was only too happy to be one of the first to sign the petition."
Friends member Lynn Munro said: "We're looking for as many people as possible to join the group and sign our petition.
"Because we think it is such a major issue, our aim is for at least 2,000 signatures before presenting it to the council.
"Our aim is for the council to make more of the town's heritage rather than less of it."
Copies of the petition are available in the Country Fair antique shop Lynn runs in Bo'ness, and in other retail outlets.
Added Lynn: "In the face of all the
history on Kinneil estate, it seems such a contradiction that all the money has been spent on Callendar House in Falkirk.
"To think that the council wants to close the door on a museum, which stands on land gifted by Robert the Bruce himself, is incomprehensible."