Can NUFC's Shay Given save Seaton Delaval Hall?
Nov 24 2008 by Dan Warburton, The Journal
NEWCASTLE United shot-stopper Shay Given has backed The Journal’s bid to save a Northumberland stately home.
Seaton Delaval Hall, near Seaton Sluice, Northumberland, could be sold to private owners after Lord Hastings, the current owner, decided to sell-up.
National Trust bosses have pledged £6.9m of the charity’s money to save the hall, but desperately need to raise a further £6.3 million before Christmas.
They are appealing to raise £1m from the people of the North East. And in a push to help raise funds, Irish goalkeeper Shay has donated a signed Newcastle United football shirt and programme, which will be auctioned.
Shay said: “Seaton Delaval Hall is a very special place and I am pleased to be able to back the National Trust’s appeal to save it. If the campaign is successful, the local community will have an amazing place to use and enjoy.”
The items donated by the Newcastle star will join a signed book and photograph donated by Newcastle Falcons’ fly-half Jonny Wilkinson earlier this year. Liz Fisher, Area Manager for the National Trust said: “We are delighted to have Shay’s backing for our appeal. He knows a thing or two about saving things, so hopefully his skills will rub off on the campaign. We have been donated some fantastic gifts for the auction so far in addition to what Shay and Jonny have given, including a signed cookbook from the Hairy Bikers and two tickets to see The Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty’s Theatre, Haymarket, London, courtesy of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber.
“We are hoping that the generous gifts from all of these people will encourage more donations of unique items to our auction. If anyone can help, by giving an item to auction or simply by making a small donation, please don’t hesitate to do so. We only have one chance to save Seaton Delaval Hall and that’s now.” With its bold, daring and dramatic architectural style, the building is widely regarded as one of the greatest masterpieces of the English Baroque.
A text service has been set-up so that willing donors can pledge their supports. Simply text HALL to 62233 and a £2 donation will be made.
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