I am spending some time this morning, the first morning of 2024, e-mailing local companies to see if they will help to save Longton Cemetery with us and donate to our fundraiser.
Could you suggest any wonderful local businesses that might be interested in joining our cause? Whether it's a donation to our fundraiser or just sharing the info with their followers, every gesture makes a difference.
If any names come to mind, please drop them in the comments or tag them here.
Here is the e-mail I have drafted that I am sending out;
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My name is Jenna, known as The Red Haired Stokie. I'm contacting you on behalf of a passionate team, Ruby and Liz, who have dedicated over four years to restoring and caring for Longton Cemetery. Our current urgent mission is restoring the Grade 2 listed chapel, a vital piece of Stoke-on-Trent’s heritage, which is now at risk.
Despite its historical significance, Stoke-on-Trent Council will not undertake its restoration, and will not maintain the building or the cemetery, leading to its severe disrepair. The structurally sound but neglected building is in danger of deteriorating beyond repair. Our intervention is critical to prevent it from reaching a point of no return.
Ruby and Liz have been the driving force behind numerous improvements in the cemetery, clearing waste and restoring key elements like the historical gates. However, the chapel needs extensive work to be saved:
Repairing and restoring damaged woodwork.
Fixing and replacing broken windows and doors.
Sanding and repainting the entire structure.
Addressing scaffolding and labour costs for restoration.
This project isn't just about restoring a building; it's about preserving a symbol of our community's history and preventing a crucial piece of our heritage from being lost. Your contribution can make a real difference. We aim to raise £10,000, with every penny going towards the chapel's restoration. Any additional funds will further enhance the chapel and its surroundings.
How to Help:
Donate via our fundraiser: https://gofund.me/839f545f
Spread the word within your network.
https://lnkd.in/euq2M4Mr
We urgently need your support to save the Longton Cemetery Chapel. This is a call to action to preserve a part of our history that, without immediate intervention, could be lost forever.
Thank you for considering our plea. For more information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
With sincere thanks,
Jenna (The Red Haired Stokie)