THE history of Kays in Worcester could be lost in years to come, according to former employee Bernard Mills.

Mr Mills, who runs the Kays Heritage Group, said apathy in the city had grown over the past year since the Bransford Road site closed, and he feared the company could be forgotten in the future.

"Kays, like so many other firms, was a huge part of Worcester's heritage and is something that should be preserved," he said.

"But no-one seems bothered about doing anything."

Mr Mills spent years collecting and collating both memorabilia and stories connected to Kays. He had always hoped to establish a museum where the collection could be displayed.

"The city council has been looking for ways to utilise the space at the Guildhall recently," he said.

"What about establishing a museum celebrating all of the industry that Worcester was once home to? Not only Kays, but Royal Worcester, Lea & Perrins, Dents and Fownes.

"I'm sure plenty of people would be interested in visiting a museum such as this."

Mr Mills keeps his collection, which provides a fascinating insight into Kays and includes everything from rare photographs, and newspaper cuttings to antique clocks and 120 years worth of catalogues, in boxes and files but hopes to eventually have it on display.

He said he was sad such little progress had been made with the future of the Bransford Road site and hoped that it would continue to be used for employment.

For more information about the history of Kays visit the website www.kaysheritage.org.uk

Anyone who can help Mr Mills find a permanent home for the collection can contact him on 07767692957 or email chairman@kaysheritage.org.uk

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