These fascinating collections are of national importance and will be displayed together for the first time in the newly renovated wing of Thoresby Courtyard.

Over the course of their history, these regiments served across the British Empire in many famous campaigns including the American war of Independence, Waterloo, Balaklava, the Boer War, the Great War and Second World War. More recently soldiers from the QRL have deployed on operations in Beirut, the Balkans, Cyprus, Iraq and Afghanistan.

The HLF funding will help create an education and research room complete with a library. Twenty cases will be installed in the gallery presenting artefacts, text and graphics, including graphic panels and two interactive learning zones. Talks and guided tour events will run throughout the year along with education programmes linked to the national curriculum.

Commenting on the funding, Emma Sayer Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund East Midlands said:

“This project is the culmination of an impressive vision to bring together the fascinating collections of the Queens Royal Lancers, the South Notts Hussars and the Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry. It is absolutely fantastic that this museum will soon provide public access to otherwise inaccessible national treasures from their involvement in many of the great battles of the last three centuries.”

“This project will offer a host of volunteering and training opportunities for the local community as well as provide a wonderful resource for visitors and locals alike to learn more about the incredible personal stories linked to the endeavours of all three regiments at key points in history in the fabulous setting of Thoresby Courtyard.”

Leading the project, Captain JM Holtby added:

“This is a really exciting time for the museum and its partners. Our free to enter exhibition will trace the human, social and military history of the County, through the campaigns of the regiments and the stories of the local men and women who served in them since their formation to the present day. We are tremendously grateful for the Heritage Lottery Fund’s backing that has made this project possible.”

Mark Spencer, Member of Parliament for Sherwood said:

“I am delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund has chosen to support such a worthwhile cause within the Sherwood and I very much hope that the local community will take full advantage of all the museum will have to offer.”

Stonebridge Trust, the charity that manages Thoresby Courtyard, has offered a generous opportunity for a 25 year lease for the museum. Currently demand for access is met through the QRL’s website and temporary touring exhibitions.

The museum estimates completion towards the end of May 2011.