Chapel appeal for support

ONE OF OUR unique architectural features is the cemetery chapel that dates back to 1855. This piece of Bourne’s heritage would not be the subject of much local debate, about the pros and cons of restoring it to its former glory from the sad state that it is in today, were it not for the neglect to attend to basic maintenance by its owners for the past 34 years, Bourne Town Council.

The current council is largely opposed to the preservation of the Victorian building, citing the cost of restoration to the council tax payer and their priority being to focus on the living, rather than the dead. Worthy though this may appear, it is just an excuse for the failure of successive councils in their duty as guardians of the town’s heritage.

Fresh ideas and enthusiasm are needed to ensure that the cemetery chapel is in its rightful place and in excellent order for future generations. If you truly care about our heritage, why not show your commitment by joining a group dedicated to investigating the ways and means to fund the restoration of the chapel and see that goal through to fruition.

Robert Kitchener, secretary of Bourne Civic Society, has been prominent with ideas and historical information. To paraphrase the words of his famous namesake: Your Chapel Needs You.

Please forward your name and contact details to Helene Currell via email. I am hoping to co-ordinate support until such time as a formal group allocates roles to its members.

Please act now. Apathy will result in failure. This is now urgent and requires action.

Please email Helene Currell by clicking on the envelope below and an email link will appear.

SUBMITTED 30th JANUARY 2008

BIOGRAPHICAL NOTE; Helene Currell has extensive experience of local government and is a passionate conservationist and supporter for the preservation of old buildings. She has lived in the Bourne area for more than 20 years and has been an active member of the local community, with the Civic Society, the Nubourne Singers for 13 years and currently the Bourne Choral Society. She was one of the Action Group that attended the Open Forum at the Corn Exchange, Bourne, on 6th March 2007, when public opinion forced the town council to delay its decision on demolishing the cemetery chapel.