Worcester Cathedral launches new recovery fund appeal to help safeguard its future after the pandemic - The Malvern Observer

Worcester Cathedral launches new recovery fund appeal to help safeguard its future after the pandemic

Malvern Editorial 20th May, 2021   0

CATHEDRAL chiefs have taken the wraps off a recovery fund to help secure its future following the impacts of the pandemic.

Like most tourist attractions, Worcester Cathedral has suffered financial hardship following the UK-wide lockdowns in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Cathedral has been a place of Christian worship in Worcester for fourteen centuries and is visited by thousands of tourists each year for its stunning architecture and heritage.

Dean of Worcester Peter Atkinson, said: “As we begin to recover from the effects of the pandemic, we must now ask for our community’s continued support for Worcester Cathedral.




“The past year has shown how many people look to the Cathedral for emotional and spiritual support.

“Many found it distressing when the doors were locked, but valued our online services. Now, people long for the return of congregational services, singing, concerts, school visits, and all the ways in which the Cathedral is at the service of the community.


“I am proud we were there to support our city and local NHS by hosting a Covid testing site earlier this year; and I am glad we were there just recently when the county wished to remember the Duke of Edinburgh.

“We have felt very strongly the benefit of the community’s support, encouragement and prayers, enabling us to come through this most difficult year.

“But the hard work is only now beginning. Public and other bodies have given emergency support to the Cathedral, as to many other organisations. But in the year to come we must stand on our own feet again, relying on visitors and our community of donors and supporters.

“I know what a special place the Cathedral holds in people’s hearts. Emerging from the pandemic, we must ensure that the Cathedral and its grounds are kept in good repair, open and safe for all to enjoy our amazing heritage. But the stark reality is that this is impossible without stable finances.

“In normal times, a significant part of our income comes from visitors, events that generate income, and from the café and shop.

“We lost all of that last year, and we expect that income only to recover very slowly. We estimate a significant deficit in the year to come – losing £903 each day. And so, I am asking you for your extraordinary help at this extraordinary time.

“I know you share my conviction Worcester Cathedral can continue to be a beacon of hope for our community.

“Please accept, in advance, our sincere and grateful thanks for any contribution towards the upkeep and longer-term future of the Cathedral you are able to make at this time.”

Visit www.worcestercathderal.co.uk/recovery2021 for more.

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