MARGATE.- This week Turner Contemporary welcomed its one millionth visitor, an incredible milestone for a gallery which opened little over 2 years ago. The millionth visitor, Susan Lewis, accompanied by her husband and friend, walked through the gallery doors just after 11:30am this morning and was congratulated by Turner Contemporary’s Director Victoria Pomery and its Trustee Clive Stevens, Managing Partner Reeves and Neylan Chartered Accountants. Susan Lewis was awarded 20 bottles of English Sparkling wine from Kent winery Chapel Down.

The million visits compares with an original forecast total of around 300,000 for just over 2 years estimated prior to the opening of the gallery. As well as exceeding visitor targets the gallery has generated over £21m for the local economy, and has played a key role in the regeneration of the historic seaside town of Margate.

Turner Contemporary’s one millionth visitor, Susan Lewis from Saltwood, Hythe, says: “It is very flattering to be here. We are going to be celebrating our golden wedding anniversary in October so the extra champagne will definitely come in handy.”

Victoria Pomery, Turner Contemporary Director, says: “Congratulations to Susan Lewis for being our one millionth visitor. A million visitors is a tremendous landmark for Turner Contemporary and it is brilliant to see the town buzzing once more. The gallery has made a real difference to the local economy and has helped to change perceptions about Margate. There are more new businesses opening in the Old Town and on the High Street. With almost a million new visitors to Margate, the town is beginning to thrive.”

John Kampfner, Turner Contemporary Chairman, says: “One million visits is a fantastic achievement for Turner Contemporary and to have reached this milestone in as just over 2 years is extraordinary. It is a testament to the huge success of the gallery locally, nationally and internationally as a model of great art and regeneration. The gallery has inspired change and has put Margate firmly on the UK cultural map. Congratulations to Susan Lewis!”