A local charity is hoping to organise an arts and heritage project "to bring Maldon's waterways to life", but it needs the community's support.

The project, organised by Xplore Arts, will explore two ideas based around local waterways and the barges that sailed through them. It aims to "empower the Maldon community through education".

Xplore Arts has published an anonymous survey to find out the key areas of interest in Maldon's heritage, and to encourage local groups to take part.

Victoria Button, an artist and educator who is part of the team, told Nub News: "We are looking for people who have a passion for art to collaborate with us on the project."

"We wish to explore the history of the Thames Sailing Barges, the stories of people connected to them, and to consider who is missing from this history and creatively re-imagine their stories and lives – using creative writing, art, and film."

The project will explore the history of Maldon's waterways, and the barges that sailed through them. (Photo: Ben Shahrabi)

The inter-generational project aims to attract a variety of local artists and creatives. Organisers are seeking a wide age range of participants, from school-aged children to socially isolated adults.

In addition to the history of the barges and waterways, the project will focus on the Battle of Maldon, a Viking incursion told in fragments of poetry and chronicles.

Victoria hopes the project will bring the whole community together.

"I want the local community to be a big part of all aspects of the project," she said.

"I hope that whatever we make is enjoyed by the people of Maldon."

Victoria has urged anyone with ideas for the project, or who wants to get involved, to fill out her short survey about the types of art they would like to see used as part of it.

"The main problem is that people who aren't from Maldon directly don't know much about its history," Victoria added.

"We want those people to have a better understanding of the town's history and heritage in a fun and engaging way."

To get involved, fill in the Xplore Arts survey.

Story by Chloe Brewster, Honey Lock and Ben Shahrabi.

Read more

• Maldon Town Council votes to recommend REFUSAL of Salero Lounge plans
• Maldon's Thursday market to return to Butt Lane Car Park this autumn
• 10 planning applications in the Maldon District: New Southminster medical practice approved, pre-application screening request for 245 new homes in Southminster, new church hall in Tolleshunt Knights, and more