Trust looks to keep legacy of Cook alive with help from Middlesbrough Lottery

Captain James Cook is one of the world’s greatest explorers, and one of Middlesbrough’s most famous sons.

One local charity is keeping his legacy alive, with help from the Middlesbrough Lottery.

The Captain Cook Birthplace Trust was first formed to help establish the Captain Cook Birthplace Museum in Stewart Park. Having existed for over 40 years, the Trust’s main purpose now is to promote the Marton-born explorer’s legacy.

Chair of the Captain Cook Birthplace Trust, Martin Peagam, said: “Capt. James Cook was born in Marton, Middlesbrough, in very humble circumstances in a small, thatched, mud covered cottage – the son of a farm labourer.

“He went on to become one of the greatest explorers the world has known. That sort of ambition is what we should be promoting in Middlesbrough, and that’s why we joined the Middlesbrough Lottery.”

The charity visits schools, holds events, walks, talks and more to ensure that knowledge of Captain James Cook and his adventures is spread around the town to its residents.

Lottery funding has already helped the trust to grow and explore new avenues.

Martin added: “We’ve already used funds to establish sign boards and information boards about Cook and the places connected with him, and we’re developing a trail which children and adults can follow to learn about Cook and Middlesbrough.”

“We found it incredibly easy to sign up to the Middlesbrough Lottery. We think it’s a lottery that’s appealing and actually helping people in Middlesbrough.

“Any charity that has Middlesbrough at its heart should really be part of the Middlesbrough Lottery.”

Charities and other good causes based in Middlesbrough can sign up today for free on the ‘Are you a good cause?’ page of the website.