Printing is an industry with a rich history, but as 2008 draws to its depressing close I can't help but feel it has been a particularly bad year when it comes to hanging on to that heritage.

On a personal level the most notable loss was that of the wonderful Lawrence Wallis, esteemed PrintWeek columnist and print historian. I was struck by his passing all over again when going through my Christmas card list, because I used to take such pleasure in picking out a card for him that was interesting in some printy way or another, in the certain knowledge that he would appreciate the selection. His extraordinary mind contained such a wealth of print information - ancient and modern - and now it is no more. At least we have his writings, I just wish there was a Wallis audio book so I could hear his voice again.

Wallis would, I'm sure, have been in equal parts apoplectic and despondent about the fact that the Type Museum in London remains closed. Whatever the future for this collection I hope it can be resolved one way or another from the limbo that currently afflicts it.

Elsewhere, the Printing House Museum in Cockermouth closed its doors for the last time following the death of its owner, and I read with sadness in Printing History News (the newsletter of the National Printing Heritage Trust, Printing Historical Society and Friends of St Bride Library) that the Rampant Lions Press of Cambridge has also ceased printing. There will be a sale of its equipment at the end of January. Apparently the Press was the second-oldest private family fine press in the world. How many are left here in the UK now, I wonder? Finding out will be something for the "to do" list of 2009, and next year I also resolve to be more appreciative of our printing heritage that still exists, while it's still around.