An art gallery and library in Brighouse, near Halifax, look set to be saved from closure thanks to a novice reporter on a work experience placement at the Brighouse Echo.

Ed Howker, a 20-year-old history student, had hoped the unpaid work placement might further his ambitions to be a journalist. But he found more than he bargained for when he looked into the history of the local library and Smith Gallery.

It was rumoured that the council were planning to sell off the Victorian mansion, which houses the gallery and library, under the Government’s “Best Value” policy.

A confidential memo suggested that the council’s priorities were in the “closing and disposing” of the Smith Gallery, as well as the mansion house and gardens.

However Howker’s historical research found that a century ago, the mansion house was presented as a lasting gift to the people of Brighouse by the town’s then Mayor, Alderman William Smith.

The Brighouse Echo described its formal opening in 1907 as “possibly the greatest day in the history of Brighouse”.

A local furore over the future of the historic building now exists thanks to the valuable contribution of Howker’s research and Calderdale coucil has deffered from publishing its “Best Value” review.

The chairman of the arts and leisure committee has since expressed a hope that the gallery might now remain open.

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