Seaton Delaval Hall campaign backed by BBC Countryfile

Mar 12 2009 by Paul Loraine, The Journal

Trust still need more cash

THE campaign to save Seaton Delaval Hall was launched by The National Trust in July last year.

The trustees of the National Trust have promised £6.9m to provide an endowment to care for the hall and parkland in perpetuity.

But a further £6.3m needs to be raised through the public if the idea is to be realised.

The aim is to not only turn the 18th Century hall into a major visitor attraction but also to use the building and surrounding 500 acres for a wide range of public activities and events.

The hall is rated as a masterpiece by the architect Sir John Vanbrugh, who started work in 1718 on the project which was to take more than 10 years.

A large-scale public consultation was launched along with the appeal to discuss possible uses for the site. If the money is not raised, the building will be sold privately and uses could range from flats to a golf course.

You can donate to the appeal on: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/seatondelavalor call 0844 800-1895.

Cheques can be sent to: Save Seaton Delaval Hall, the National Trust, PO Box 39, Warrington, WA5 7WD.