Just one last push needed to save hall
Dec 17 2008 by Jon Tunney, The Journal
NATIONAL Trust bosses last night thanked the public for "amazing" generosity after revealing they were just £500,000 short of their target.
But they urged supporters to one final push for Seaton Delaval Hall to get the fundraising target over the finishing line.
With just a few weeks left to raise the money to save Sir John Vanbrugh’s masterpiece in Northumberland for the nation, the National Trust’s appeal has received a boost in donations.
In the past month, donations, major gifts and pledges mean the trust is just £500,000 off its public appeal target.
The campaign has raised more than £1.5m from the public appeal, major donors and community fundraising and in pledges from charitable trusts. The trust’s attempt to raise a total of £6.3m by the end of the year to save the hall, grounds and 450 acres of countryside is split between private donations through a £2m public appeal and grants and funding from the Government and other public bodies towards a target of £4.3m.
A trust spokeswoman yesterday said it was hopeful it could win the funding it needed from other sources.
She said: “Various applications to different funding bodies are at different stages of being considered .
“We are hopeful that all will be successful, but we cannot say so with certainty.
“The appeal to save Seaton Delaval has involved the biggest ever public consultation that the trust has conducted. It has received an overwhelming message of support from the local community who want to enjoy and be part of the hall’s future and who have suggested many ideas for its use, including an exhibition centre and performance space, to a venue for weddings, concerts and banquets.
National Trust director of fundraising Gill Raikes voiced delight at the recent surge in cash pledges for the appeal.
She said: “Just a month ago, we were very worried that we were not going to reach our target, especially in the light of the continued economic downturn.
“It’s the run-up to Christmas, we’re in a credit crunch, but the public support to save Seaton Delaval has been amazing.
“Thousands of people from the local community and around the country have expressed their desire for the trust to acquire the hall and have given generously.
“But with only a few weeks to go, every last effort to raise funds is needed. “
To make a donation, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/seatondelaval or telephone 0844 800-1895.
It’s the run-up to Christmas, we’re in a credit crunch, but the public support … has been amazing.
