Royal praise for Seaton Delaval campaign

Sep 14 2009 By Sam Wood, The Journal

THE Prince of Wales has paid tribute to the "remarkable" fundraising effort behind plans to save Seaton Delaval Hall for the public.

Prince Charles and his wife the Duchess of Cornwall were in the North East on Saturday to check out the hall, which the National Trust is trying to buy.

Thanks to an epic fundraising effort only another £300,000 of the £6.3m total cost is needed to buy the building from its current owner Lord Hastings.

The Royals were shown round the magnificent Grade I Listed 18th Century hall and its beautiful gardens by National Trust bosses and met school children and fundraisers. Enjoying the sunshine, Charles and Camilla were treated to some clog dancing as well as some Caribbean style dancing.

In a speech afterwards the prince heaped praise on those who have contributed towards a campaign to secure the future of the hall. He said: "I’m very proud to join you today. I have been hearing about the hall for some time.

"I’m full of admiration for what has been achieved. The degree of enthusiasm from the local community has been quite remarkable.

"It’s a great tribute that we have got so far with this project, to all those who have given their hearts and souls to make sure this project could be successful.

"From the schoolchildren to various groups and individuals, everyone has put so much effort in. Thank you for everything you have done"

:: Click here to see a video of Charles and Camilla on their visit to the region

:: Click here to see an image gallery of the Royal visit to Seaton Delaval Hall