A MAN'S dying wish to have his museum preserved looks likely to be granted.

For several years before his death in May, Jack Anderson, of Anderson's shoe shop, painstakingly built up a collection of historical artefacts, documents and photographs at Winkie's Castle, in Marske High Street.

The 17th Century building served as an unconventional museum, with people making appointments to be shown around. Prior to his death, Mr Anderson attempted to secure its future through bodies like the National Trust, only to be told that although it is Grade Two listed, they would not take it on.

So in his will, he bequeathed it to Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, with the stipulation that it maintained the building as a museum. If the council refused, it would fall to his nephew Ian Anderson.

The deadline for the council to accept the gift is next month, and councillors will meet to decide on Tuesday.

A report by museums officer Phil Philo suggests that the authority fulfils Mr Anderson's wishes.

It describes Winkie's Castle as having the potential to be "a unique community facility for Marske and the borough", and recommends that councillors accept the bequest and consult the community on how the museum should be developed.

Saltburn, Marske and New Marske Parish Council has already offered money and the use of its wardens to help with its upkeep. Clerk Susan Preston said it strongly favours the council taking over.

"The parish councillors would like to see it retained for the community," she said.

"We have written to the council to say we support keeping the building as a museum and suggested that it holds a public meeting in Markse to discuss the level of public support.

"We would like to see the Friends of Winkie's Castle being formed and perhaps opening it once a week. Also, the collection needs cataloguing."

Ms Preston said it would take about £750 a year to keep the museum going and about £3,000 to renovate it