One of the Lake District’s most popular indoor attractions has a new customer service manager at the steering wheel.
And Carol Phillpotts has exciting plans for Lakeland Motor Museum at Backbarrow attraction which draws in more than 80,000 visitors every year.
“As soon as I walked into the museum, I could feel how special the place is,” said Carol.
“It’s already a fascinating attraction with so much to interest visitors of all ages. I can’t wait to get involved in shaping its future development.”
Working alongside museum curator Chris Lowe, Carol is keen to make visits even more memorable by adding to the many experiences available at the museum.
With her background in education, she is planning fresh developments to encourage new visitors and widen the museum’s already popular appeal to families.
“It goes without saying the collection of vehicles and automobilia here is second to none,” said Carol. “But I’m keen to build on the museum’s potential as a venue for gift shopping, for hosting events, or even just as a place for friends to gather and relax by the river with a nice drink and something to eat from the cafe.
“I’m keen to make it a location in its own right. I’ll work to improve the already wide range of wonderful gifts we sell in the shop – from jewellery to books to collectibles, toys and games.”
Carol said the museum was also a perfect venue for talks, music evenings, workshops and entertainment.
“I’m looking forward to attracting more visitors here to experience events like that,” she said.
Carol started her working life as a hairdresser – going on to teach hairdressing and beauty therapy at Furness College.
She developed her teaching skills further by working with young people – eventually establishing her own business working with schools to help youngster’s personal development and offering careers advice. She has also run her own florist and gift business.
The attraction, at Backbarrow, has over 30,000 exhibits including over 140 classic cars and motorbikes. It also has an extensive Campbell Bluebird Exhibition, housed in its own building, paying tribute to the high-speed careers of Sir Malcolm and Donald Campbell.