The aquarium at the Horniman provides authentic habitats for more than 150 species of aquatic wildlife. © Laura Mtungwazi

The voting for the 2007 Readers' Poll for the Gulbenkian Prize is now closed

Not only have we had an amazing response to our Gulbenkian Prize People's Vote, but we've received literally hundreds of fantastic comments, showing just how much museums and galleries mean to local people. Here's a selection showing what our readers feel about the Horniman Museum in Forest Hill, South London.

“This really is a jewel in the crown of south London. I feel it is important to express to the museum the respect the local community has for the efforts that the Horniman staff have made in gifting us with such a well thought out experience that is enjoyed by children and adults through out the year. Thank you.” Jeremy

“The Horniman is one of the best Museums that I have seen, & I have seen many in my 60 years. I never tire of seeing the aquarium and all the other exhibits. As well as being fun to visit it it also a great place of learning for our young people. I love watching the children enjoying the museum.” Catherine

“The Horniman is a fascinating museum and the new Aquarium is brilliant! I've been visiting the place since I was 11 years old and still find every visit fun and exciting.” Diana

The £1.5m aquarium is especially popular with young visitors. © Laura Mtungwazi

“Children spend ages gazing at Jelly-fish and counting frogs while adults can learn about all manner of things including the sex-life of a sea-horse! I've told all my friends to visit the Horniman's aquarium. It's the most excellent attraction in South London and thoroughly deserves to win the Gulbenkian Prize. GOOD LUCK Horniman Museum!!” Rachel

“We love the museum because of the lovley moon jellyfish.” Lauren and Jaydeh Horniman Primary school both age 7

“Everyone I have taken to the Horniman Museum new aquarium has been hugely impressed and thoroughly enjoyed the visit. This is a wonderful local resource which we treasure here in South London.” Molly

“Considering what has just been announced in the news with Children in England unhappy, neglected and poorly educated this is a place where the children are encouraged to be happy, cared for and educated. The Horniman has my vote and deserves to win.” Anna

This free museum is at the heart of the community in Forest Hill. © Laura Mtungwazi

“I would like to support the superb Horniman Museum Aquarium – a wonderful source of education, interest and fascination to thousands of young children. Children want to visit again and again (as do adults!) and it is an experience that is available absolutely free of charge – a great bonus to the many parents of limited means in south London.” Carole

“I think it is fair to say that most aquariums and zoological centres have an admission charge - the upkeep for such places must be huge. But the Horniman museum offers free entry, and for this reason is hugely important in providing a valuable and enjoyable experience for visitors at no cost.” Jess

“The Horniman is unique. An extraordinary vision of our world housed in an extraordinary building. You can travel through world cultures both ancient and modern without producing a single drop of polluting carbon.” Jo