You are invited to join Ruby, Liz & Jenna (The Red Haired Stokie), in a significant community project: the restoration of the Grade 2 listed chapel in Longton Cemetery. Over the past four years, these dedicated individuals have been the unsung heroes of Longton Cemetery, transforming it from a neglected space into a place of respect and beauty. Now, they need your help to save the chapel at the heart of the cemetery.
Why the Chapel Needs Restoring:
The grade 2 listed chapel, owned by the council, is structurally sound but has fallen into a state of disrepair due to minimal maintenance efforts, which only extend to grass cutting and hedge trimming. Currently, the chapel serves merely as a storage space for council workers, denying it the dignity and purpose it deserves. Restoring this chapel is crucial to preserve a piece of our local heritage and to keep the cemetery a dignified resting place for our loved ones.
The Journey So Far:
Ruby and Liz's commitment to Longton Cemetery has been nothing short of extraordinary:
- They have cleared the cemetery’s boundaries of waste, drug paraphernalia, and rubbish.
- The pair meticulously cut back dense hedges by four meters around the cemetery's perimeter.
- They successfully lobbied the council to repair large, dangerous potholes along the cemetery’s road.
- Ruby and Liz have painted all safety barriers and funded the restoration of the cemetery's gates and railings, including the magnificent Grade 2 listed gates, with over £7,600 raised through community support.
Despite these efforts, the chapel remains in dire need of restoration.
What Your Donation Will Achieve:
Your generous donations will directly fund:
- The restoration of the woodwork in the chapel.
- Repair and replacement of damaged windows and door parts.
- Sanding and painting the entire chapel structure.
- Necessary scaffolding and labour costs.
The Impact of Your Contribution:
- Preserving History: This chapel isn't just a building; it's a piece of our shared history and community identity.
- Enhancing the Cemetery: Your support will help transform this storage space into a well-maintained, respectful part of the cemetery.
- Community Spirit: By donating, you become part of a collective effort to care for our local history.
Our Commitment:
Every penny raised will go towards the chapel's restoration. Any funds exceeding our £10,000 goal will enhance the chapel’s base with gravel, tarmac, and a fresh coat of paint. Ruby and Liz have proven their dedication, and with your help, this project can reach its full potential.
Don't let the Longton Cemetery Chapel fall into oblivion. Your donation, no matter the size, makes a significant difference. Join us in this labour of love and contribute to a project that will leave a lasting legacy in our community. Please, donate today and help us bring the chapel back to life.
Thank you,
Ruby, Liz & Jenna (The Red Haired Stokie)