Video - £50,000 appeal target achieved at Shakespeare’s church in Stratford-upon-Avon
THE £50,000 target to complete a major restoration of the historic organ at Holy Trinity Church in Stratford has not only been achieved, it’s been beaten by £20,000.
The appeal, launched last March at Stratford Town Hall, has been hugely successful and allowed the first phase of the work to be completed.
Richard Hartley, who has been one of the driving forces behind the Holy Trinity Organ Restoration Appeal, told the Herald: “The scaffolding was removed last week, and the church spruced up in time for the important Christian festival of Easter. That signifies the finish of the first stage of the renovations. The second phase will take place later in the year and will be completed in the autumn.”
Much of the fundraising has been achieved with the support of businesses around town and through special events, including a church fete in September.
“The community fete was the high point in the series of events that were held throughout the year,” said Richard. “Eve Archer was at the helm of the project which was a huge success both financially and as a community event for the people of Stratford.
“My personal highlight was being able to connect with those who were able to give substantial sums to the fund. I would like to thank everyone who contributed in whatever way to ensure the target has been met.”
However, while the pot of money to carry out the work on the organ has been going up, so have the overall costs – estimated now to be around £78,000.
“I have to say that even though we have raised £70,000, there is more needed,” said Richard. “The original quotation given nearly three years ago has increased because of inflation. That, and the cost of scaffolding which was considerable, raises the final cost to £78,000 – so we still have a little way to go.”
There are plans to bridge the gap.
“Our patron, Tony Bird, has kindly offered to hold afternoon cream tea and champagne in his magnificent garden in the summer,” explained Richard.
In the meantime, the restoration of the organ, which was built in 1731 at a cost of £50, will continue with the aim of having it ready for a special concert in the autumn.
“I hope then we will be able to give a big thank you to all those that have contributed to the Organ Appeal Fund,” said Richard.
He added: “Even though the work is still to be completed, the wonderful tone and sounds of the organ on Sunday underlined the improvement already made.”
