‘Maintenance plan essential at end of Little Chapel work’
AROUND £350,000 has been spent so far restoring the Little Chapel, but more money is needed if the work is to continue.
Access has been restricted this winter, especially to the lower levels.
The work being undertaken is costing around £5,000 a month, but it is anticipated that it will be completed by Easter.
Little Chapel Foundation head of fundraising Jack Honeybill said local tradesmen had been carrying out work for free or at a reduced rate, which had helped the donations carry the project forward.
‘Once this work is completed, it is imperative that we have an ongoing maintenance plan,’ he said.
‘We must avoid any risk of the chapel becoming derelict once again due to lack of regular maintenance. The future of the Little Chapel is very much reliant on donations.
‘As the chapel becomes even more attractive, it is hoped that the number of visitors will increase. A small donation from everyone would go a long way to meeting our targets.’
Mr Honeybill said he would be approaching hospitality businesses again to help support the work.
‘I would like them to remind their clients that February is the traditional time to give some TLC to those we love,’ he said.
‘The foundation is hoping that the romantic inference of TLC can also encompass The Little Chapel (TLC).
‘Last year the collection boxes placed in those establishments that supported our initiative yielded enough to meet one month’s restoration costs.
‘This year we are hopeful that the campaign will prove successful enough to help us realise one of our most important goals, creating access paths for visitors with disabilities.’
Letters, collection boxes and explanatory leaflets will be delivered to participating establishments.
‘It is not our intention to burden proprietors and staff with additional administration at a busy time, but if bills could be presented to customers inside one of the TLC Valentine cards it may prompt a donation,’ Mr Honeybill said.
The businesses supporting TLC
Gusto, Da Nello, J B Parker’s, The Hideaway, Red, The Old Government House Hotel, The Duke of Richmond Hotel, La Grande Mare Hotel and Golf Club, Cafe Emelia, Mora, Balthazar, Le Nautique, Muse, Village East, Coco, The Boathouse, Les Douvres, The Captains, Dix Neuf and The Queen’s Inn.
. For more information email jackhoneybill@thelittlechapel.gg or call 07781 113464.
