Packs of facts on how to save Hall

Aug 1 2008 by Paul Loraine, The Journal

FUNDRAISING packs have been launched by the National Trust as they try to raise £1m in the North East to save a stately home.

The trust will put forward £6.9m to save Seaton Delaval Hall, providing that a national campaign can raise the remaining £6.3m.

And now packs containing information on the hall, fundraising ideas, sponsorship forms and posters to promote events are being circulated in an attempt to generate more interest.

The 18th Century building is being sold by owner Lord Hastings and the trust has urged volunteers to help raise £1m in the North East before Christmas.

Sadie Parker, acting communications and marketing manager for the National Trust, said: “We have had so many great offers from people who want to fundraise to save Seaton Delaval Hall – from people offering to hold small events like floral demonstrations, a garage sale and coffee mornings, to larger events including a sponsored bike ride and even putting on a theatrical production at the Hall.

“Every fundraising effort people make is absolutely critical in our efforts to save the Hall, every pound that people can raise helps.

“The National Trust has been overwhelmed with the response to our request for fundraisers and now that the community fundraising packs are ready, people can get started with the whole host of events they have suggested.

“If you haven’t considered doing so, we would urge everyone to have a go at fundraising, the packs have loads of great suggestions for fun ways to raise funds and ones that take not much effort at all, like selling something you don’t want on eBay.”

The packs also contain information about Gift Aid and information about the trust’s own fundraising plans as well as documents explaining the legal situation and giving guidance on what to do with money raised.

If the fundraising target is not met, the building will be sold privately and uses could range from flats to a golf course.

A large-scale public consultation process is under way to decide how best to use the hall, gardens and grounds.

Among the suggestions so far are a heritage and arts centre, summer camp for children and training grounds for students.

Others have suggested work and exhibition space for artists, a venue for music concerts, a centre for health and wellbeing and a garden attraction similar to The Alnwick Garden.

Anyone who wants a fundraising pack can ring Iain Miles on (01670) 774691 or email: iain.miles@nationaltrust.org.uk