Artists celebrate Ryde history with Rydeosaurs installation

Naomi Baisley, a local graphic design student was intrigued by ‘Rydeosaurs’ from the museum’s collection – 40 cast-iron mythical creatures originally installed at Ryde pier shelters.

The museum now holds two missing creatures and offers numerous Ryde-related artefacts.

Pledging to keep the museum accessible, they appeal for public support.

An ongoing £1 reduction on the standard £5 museum entry is offered if patrons identify the number of Rydeosaurs in the current installation.

Ms Baisley said: “The underground Museum of Ryde holds many secrets and stories about our town.

“The history of the Rydeosaurs, the guardians of the pier, is one such story that has been a delight to discover and re-tell.”

Brian Harris, chair of the Historic Ryde Society which runs the Museum of Ryde, is delighted with the installation of Naomi’s Rydeosaur-inspired artwork.

He said: “The Rydeosaurs have been immortalised in both the Mayor of Ryde’s regalia and in the logo for the Historic Ryde Society so to see them now larger than life in this iconic phone box is wonderful.”