Today, the worst fears surrounding the future of Bradford’s National Media Museum are in danger of being realised as it becomes clear that there is a very real threat to its continued existence.

If Government spending is cut by ten per cent, then the Science Museum Group says it will close one of its three museums in the north.

Which is why the Telegraph & Argus is today launching its campaign to keep our iconic museum in the city, and calls on all readers to sign our petition and show your support.

Since opening 30 years ago, the museum has become an integral part of Bradford, helping us achieve City of Film status and hosting international events like the film festival.

It is hard for people from outside the district to understand exactly how important the museum is to the people of our city; it is an ego boost to have such an internationally-recognised attraction here, and it has great significance for many people.

Its loss would, in the words of MP Gerry Sutcliffe, be catastrophic for Bradford.

Closure would be a devastating blow as the city bids to turn an economic corner, and would leave a huge hole in its cultural heart.

But the signs are not good, with the head of the Science Museum Group claiming the museum has ‘drifted from its core mission’ and needs to focus more on education and science.

That is why it is imperative that everyone sends a clear message that Bradford will not sit back and allow this city treasure to be shut down without a fight. We have to make our feelings loud and clear, and leave both the Government and Science Museum Group with the message that we simply will not allow this to happen.