Business boost for King’s Lynn Minster’s appeal

Businesses have been supporting King’s Lynn Minster with cash gifts to aid their restoration and improvement works.

Officials say work on the project, which includes repairing stonework, glazing and building a new emergency exit, is progressing well and they are hopeful of starting the next phase this autumn.

Vicar, Canon Chris Ivory accepted a £20,000 donation from local businesses at a charity reception at Lynn town hall on Friday, plugging a shortfall in their £833,771 project.

He said: “I am continually overwhelmed by the generosity of people in support of the minster.

“Just over half the cost will come from national sources, 30 per cent from the Heritage Lottery Fund, but over £300,000 has been raised locally, £55,000 from individual donations and now local businesses have stepped up, donating £20,000 so far.”

At the charity reception, Simon Morris, from Palm Paper, presented Canon Ivory with a cheque for £10,000.

And borough mayor Nick Daubney thanked those businesses who have donated and invited others to contribute and become a Corporate Friend of the Minster.

Canon Ivory added: “This is how it has been through 900 years of history, the people of the town have supported their church in its time of need.

“These are exciting times and the development will enable King’s Lynn Minster to offer more facilities and events for our community, and play its part in promoting our outstanding historic town.”

Canon Ivory said £70,000 is still needed to complete the works, and is accepting donations at the church or online.

For more information or to support the minster’s work with a cash gift, visit their website at www.kingslynnminster.org or search ‘King’s Lynn Minster’ on their Just Giving page via www.justgiving.com