The actions of Congleton Museum's former chair have been labelled 'unconstitutional'.

Earlier this week, the former chair of Congleton Museum Trust, Ian Doughty, sent a 'Notice of Suspension' to all Friends of Congleton Museum.

The statement claimed that all trustees had been suspended and that he alone acts for the museum.

However, the trustees say his words have no legal backing and that he has no authority to claim to represent Congleton Museum Trust.

Current co-chair Anne Gubbins said: "Almost a year ago, Ian Doughty was removed as chair of the board following serious misconduct.

"We'd prefer not to go into detail of that here because other people were affected by his actions.

"We wanted to remove him as a trustee, but at the AGM members insisted he remain.

"Since then, he has undertaken a war of attrition against the other trustees to impede the development and operation of the museum."

Mr Doughty was removed as chair of the board following 'serious misconduct' (Credit: Nub News)

Mr Doughty's conduct led the board to take advice from museum governance professionals, who recommended an independent investigation into events at the museum over the past year.

The results of this investigation are expected shortly.

Trustee and Congleton town councillor, Suzy Firkin, said: "The trustees have been working very hard and in good faith to fix the problems caused by Ian Doughty.

"We are an experienced team, with business people, accountants and museum professionals all working together for the good of our museum.

"It is very sad that Ian has chosen to spread misinformation and mislead some of our loyal Friends for his own agenda.

"We are all grateful to Ian for his knowledge and commitment to the museum over the years, but these cannot excuse recent misdemeanours and the trustees had no option but to act."

The results of an investigation into Mr Doughty's 'misconduct' are expected shortly (Credit: Nub News)

Co-chair Sergey Kamenskiy added: "Throughout 2025, the trustees have tried to collaborate with Ian Doughty, but unfortunately, with no success.

"At the same time, the board has been very active, developing new ideas and projects that reflect the collective effort of the whole team."

Attempts have been made to contact Mr Doughty. Congleton Nub News would welcome his response to the trust's allegations. Mr Doughty is asked to contact Nub News via [email protected].