Boston Guildhall Museum is proud to have received a donation from one of the town’s most distinguished and recognisable residents - Sir Professor Jonathan Van-Tam.
Born and raised in Boston Sir Jonathan Van-Tam rose to national prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic through his role as Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England.
He became a familiar face to millions through the Downing Street press briefings, where his clear explanations and everyday examples helped people understand complex scientific issues during a time of great uncertainty.
Sir Jonathan became known for his bold pin-striped suits and his loyalty to Boston United Football Club, often wearing the club’s tie during his television appearances.
The donation to Boston Guildhall Museum includes the famous pin-striped suit worn during the press conferences, together with a tie worn during those briefings and one of his much-loved Boston United ties.
During the handover at the museum, Sir Jonathan reflected on his connection to the Guildhall: He said: “I remember coming to the museum whilst growing up in the town and going into the cells.
“Now that my suit has reached the end of its working life, I wanted to donate it to the museum as it marked a part of my own life and that of my hometown.”
Sir Jonathan has enjoyed a distinguished career in medicine and public health. A graduate of the University of Nottingham, he is internationally recognised for his expertise in influenza, pandemic preparedness, vaccinology and respiratory viruses.
He served as Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England from 2017 to 2022 and played a leading role in the UK’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In recognition of his services to public health, he was knighted in the 2022 New Year Honours.
Councillor Sarah Sharpe, Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and Tourism, said: “We are very grateful to Jonathan for his generous donation.
“We are currently working on a series of exhibition panels about famous Bostonians and this donation will be exhibited as part of that series over the next few months.
