Jonathan Wright of the Poltimore House Trust contacted us with news of the current Big Give funding drive to restore the roof of Poltimore House , the 16th century Grade II* listed manor house just outside Exeter.
I write as Deputy Chairman of the Poltimore House Trust. Poltimore House is a neglected gem in the Devon countryside which is now being revived as a creative and educational hub for the local and regional community.
Since BBC2's Restoration programme in 2003, volunteers have been working to protect and maintain the house and grounds, and trustees have been working to raise the funds to begin the restoration process. Plans for the sustainable future of the house have been developed in consultation with local businesses, local people, and with help from The University of Exeter amongst others.
I write to ask you for help in raising awareness of our project, in particular on the Big Give website next week, and to offer in return the opportunity to broaden audiences and awareness of your own site. We are beginning to build a large base of visitors and Friends who are heritage followers, and who would be open to hearing about other sites and projects.
As you may be aware, the Big Give offers charities the chance to multiply donations from their supporters through the Challenge fund provided. Poltimore House has received £5,000 in pledges which we are hoping to grow to £20,000 through on-line donations from 6th to 10th December.
We would really appreciate your help in spreading the word about Poltimore (unless you are also involved in the Big Give of course!) so that we can continue to grow. And if you are ever in a similar situation please feel free to let us know about your campaign so that we can see if our supporters might help you as well.
If you can help, please distribute the enclosed leaflet about The Big Give, and direct people to our site www.poltimore.org/biggive . You can email info@poltimore.org with questions.
- RG
Poltimore House: Big Give Christmas Challenge 2010
