Stump Cross Caverns has been saved from permanent closure thanks to overwhelming public financial support.
Stump Cross Caverns has been saved from permanent closure thanks to overwhelming public financial support. Following a recent Government funding setback and having been hit hard by COVID restrictions, the Caverns owners, the Bowerman family, were driven to desperate measures to keep themselves from closing their doors. A solution to this was to enter their own luxury VW campervan into a two-part crowdfunding appeal. But thanks to the kindness and generosity of the local community, and that of others from around the country who heard about the plight of the caves, the campaign has already reached its £50,000 target, giving them a fighting chance of survival. Commenting on the campaign’s success, which has seen more than 3,000 donations since its launch just over a month ago, Owner Lisa Bowerman said:
"It’s difficult to express just how much we value the staggering reaction we’ve received from the public during our fight to save the caves from closure. "An unsuccessful application for a Government grant from the Cultural Recovery Fund was a massive blow and left us with no other choice but to reach out to the public for support. "Thanks to their unbelievable generosity we no longer have to worry about what the future has in store. Our small, family-run business will remain open and continue to educate and wow those who experience the splendour of the ancient cave system here at Stump Cross."[caption id="attachment_7286" align="alignnone" width="1505"] Stump Cross Caverns has smashed their fundraising target of £50,000.[/caption] Despite reaching their fundraising goal two weeks ahead of the appeal’s closing date, Lisa still hopes to keep raising vital cash for the caves and has stretched the campervan fundraiser target to £60,000 to help them reach out and work closer with schools. She added:
"Having met our financial goal, one lucky person is guaranteed to drive away in their very own VW campervan and five more will benefit from memorable Stump Cross experiences. "All will be announced following our live draw on the 31st March. So, to be in with a chance to win, keep pledging and enter. Every penny counts towards helping the caves, educating children and reassuring our customers that our doors will remain open after the pandemic."Anyone who would still like to pledge their support has until 00.01 on Wednesday 31st March to enter the prize draws. Winners will be announced live from 8pm that evening. For more information on the appeal and to purchase tickets visit https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/vw-campervan-prize-draw--it-could-be-you or www.crowdfunder.co.uk/prize-draw-win-up-to-5-prizes Those missing the caverns or hoping to visit after lockdown can still explore the site from the comfort of their own home thanks to an interactive online virtual 3D tour, created by Leeds-based Apollo3D, and featured on the Stump Cross Caverns website www.stumpcrosscaverns.co.uk/. Read more local stories from Your Harrogate here.
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