Founding partners of the Thomas Wolsey 550 project have gathered together ahead of the launch on March 10.

Thomas Wolsey was born in Ipswich in March 1473, and to celebrate his 550th birthday an 18-month project has been planned featuring events, activities and exhibitions.

The scheme aims to create a new legacy for the former Lord High Chancellor of Great Britain, reconnecting him with his hometown and strengthening his position on the world stage.

Over Christmas 2021, the director of Ipswich Central, Terry Hunt, gathered key figures in Ipswich to discuss what the project could look like and the impact it will have on the town.

The Wolsey 550 programme will include several town centre events and activities, new video and digital interpretation, an exhibition at The Hold, specialist talks, walking tours, workshops and an extensive 12-month school programme.

Ipswich Star: The founding members of Wolsey 550 project. L to R: Terry Hunt, Terry Baxter, Jonathan Agar, Helen Dawe, Cllr Paul West, Cllr David Ellesmere and Helen Langton. Credit: Ipswich CentralThe founding members of Wolsey 550 project. L to R: Terry Hunt, Terry Baxter, Jonathan Agar, Helen Dawe, Cllr Paul West, Cllr David Ellesmere and Helen Langton. Credit: Ipswich Central (Image: Ipswich Central)

The founding partners include Ipswich Borough Council, Suffolk County Council, University of Suffolk, Associated British Ports, Birketts and Ipswich Central, who have led the project's development and will lead its delivery.

Terry Baxter, chair of Ipswich Central, said: "We are delighted to have played a pivotal role in bringing the Thomas Wolsey 550 project to life.

"Having initiated conversations back in 2021, the interest from key stakeholders in the town was overwhelming.

"We are looking forward to being involved in this heritage project, which we hope will be the first of many."

Ipswich Star: Terry Hunt next to the statue of Thomas Wolsey, with the Wolsey 550 sign. Credit: Ipswich CentralTerry Hunt next to the statue of Thomas Wolsey, with the Wolsey 550 sign. Credit: Ipswich Central (Image: Ipswich Central)

David Ellesmere, leader of Ipswich Borough Council, added: "We are proud to be one of the founding partners, celebrating the 550th anniversary of the birth of Cardinal Thomas Wolsey.

"Wolsey 550 will help raise awareness of the significant role Ipswich has played and continues to play in our country's history and provide a boost to the local economy, as well as being a lot of fun."

University of Suffolk vice-chancellor, Professor Helen Langton, said: "Wolsey himself is a fascinating historical figure who continues to attract interest in Ipswich and the wider region."