FOR as long as she can remember, Lottie Collins has had a passion for all things historical.
So when she was given the chance to look after one of Harrow's most prestigious sites she jumped at the opportunity.
As manager of Harrow Museum for the past two years she has dedicated her time to try to instil her interest in history in the people of the borough.
The centre in Headstone Manor Park, Pinner View is home to a whole host of historical exhibitions in the Grade II-listed Tithe Barn, and in the 14th Century Headstone Manor boasts one of England's oldest moated manor houses.
Since the 27-year-old completed her history degree she has been determined to forge a career in museums.
Along the way she has been lucky enough to work in some impressive national museums, but says local history is in many ways far more compelling.
She said: "I think local history is extremely important and it is great to know about what has gone on in the area you live in.
"Even if you are new to the area I feel like people should try and get a sense of what Harrow is all about."
Part of Lottie's responsibilities include making a decision on what exhibitions are put on at the centre over the course of the year.
It contains two all-year round permanent exhibitions and six temporary ones.
And how does she make those decisions? She said: "I try to think
about what the public are interested in and then do my best to try and strike a balance to appeal to as many people as possible."
"We want to appeal to a wide mix of people and I think this is reflected in the range of people we see coming through the doors."
So far this year the centre has housed a fine art collection and an exhibition on the development in interfaith relations.
Currently the Tithe Barn is carrying an exhibition entitled Harriot to Hubble, to celebrate the international year of astronomy.
Lottie added: "Exhibitions like the one we have on at the moment reflect the amount of help I receive from so many people.
"It just so happened that a lot of volunteers we have here are also part of an astronomical society, and they had loads of material on the topic.
"Without the help of so many volunteers, Harrow Heritage Trust, people at the library and Harrow Council my job would be impossible."
And help will be on hand as usual when the site hosts its next major event on Monday, May 4.
May Day has long been a cause for celebration in Harrow, and like years gone by, the museum will be the home to morris dancing, live music and falconry displays.
Visit www.harrow.gov.uk/museum .
