Foundation gives £10k for Abbey fund (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Foundation gives £10k for Abbey fund

A DONATION of £10,000 has been given to the Pershore Abbey restoration fund. The money is to make a start on repairs to the Abbey, which could run into six figures.

The donation from The Baxters Foundation, will be used to help carry out urgent repair work.

The Abbey which dates back to the late seventh century and has become structurally unsound due to a problem with drainage and several large tree roots in the surroundings.

Church Warden Sarah Wilson said: "Over the past few months there have been several investigative digs. These have shown that a collapsed drain has caused the abbey to move slightly and therefore cracks have appeared.

"Work is due to start at the beginning of next month and although we don't have an exact figure, the restoration is set to run into tens of thousands of pounds."

Many events are held at the abbey every year including the locally renowned Pershore Carnival on May 29 this year.

The building is now a shadow of its former self. This is mainly due to the dissolution of the monasteries by Henry VII in 1538.

In the late tenth century Benedictine monks acquired the monastery. This was the case until 1540, when the Parishioners of the town bought the abbey for just over £400.

"We are all extremely grateful for the money the Baxter's foundation have donated. We hope that the work will be completed as soon as possible, but the abbey is still open and everyone is welcome. We have lots fundraising ideas planned which will be announced over the coming weeks," said Sarah Wilson.

The Baxters Foundation, have made several donations to Pershore establishments including the Number 8 theatre and Pershore women's football club and own Pershore based Garners Foods.

For more information on the restoration or any fundraising call the Abbey Office on 01386 561520.