Help write the Herald's name in New Place history

Each inscription will be a monument to those who chose it and the entire work is a lasting symbol of all the support that helped make the New Place vision a reality.

It can be dedicated to individuals, family or a group of friends, or an organisation.

Readers of the Stratford Herald are offered the opportunity to raise £500 to help transform New Place and stake their claim on one of the much sought-after engraved leaves.

The contribution will be marked in the form of an engraved leaf dedicated to Herald readers. But that’s not all. One lucky reader who has donated to the ‘Herald leaf’ will be chosen at random to win a fantastic prize.

They will win a money-can’t-buy prize of two tickets to the VIP Grand Opening of New Place in July, joining dignitaries from around the globe, plus a super package of Shakespeare anniversary goodies.

Herald editor, Amanda Chalmers, said: “It was decided that the Stratford Herald and its loyal readers of more than 150 years should play a small part in this dedication and, conscious that most people can’t afford the £500 sponsorship, this was a way of helping more readers to be involved.

“The paper has more than earned its own place in Stratford’s history and has worked closely alongside the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, to promote the town’s place on the local and global map.

“This initiative is also our way of celebrating and supporting the New Place project and the continued legacy of Stratford’s most famous son. Please make a donation to help hit our target and, who knows, you could find yourself a place on one of the most sought-after guest lists on Stratford’s calendar.”

Helen Prince, Head of Development at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, said: “We’re thrilled that the Herald is backing the transformation by creating this special opportunity for its readers to help breathe new life into New Place. The Herald and New Place are both, in their different ways, part of the fabric of Stratford, so it is fitting that the paper and its readers are represented in this brand new chapter in the history.

“I hope readers will get behind this initiative and we look forward to welcoming all supporters when New Place re-opens this summer.”

To pledge your donation (minimum £5) visit: http://campaign.justgiving.com/charity/shakespearebt/stratforduponavon