Partner Article

Public back move to save estate

Efforts to save a historic stately home in Northumberland for the nation are close to success, according to fundraisers.

The National Trust is attempting to raise £6.3m by the end of the year to buy Seaton Delaval Hall, of which £2m must come from the public. The trust said it had so far attracted £1.5m in public donations.

The fundraising campaign has involved events on the Farne Islands and in “haunted” houses and even a “men at work” calendar featuring staff. Supporters include England and Newcastle Falcons rugby star Jonny Wilkinson, Newcastle United goalkeeper Shay Given and actor Pete Postlethwaite.

Gill Raikes, the National Trust’s director of fundraising, 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.”

Donations can be made at the National Trust website.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .