Cllr Bhim Saru, Nuneaton and Bedworth’s new Mayor, has launched his Civic Appeal and is raising funds for the Chilvers Coton Heritage Centre.
The appeal was launched at Nuneaton Town Hall on Wednesday, 21 May, and a host of fundraising events will take place over the next 12 months to boost the Nuneaton Heritage Centre.
Cllr Saru said:
“As Mayor, I chose Chilvers Coton Heritage Centre for my Mayor’s Appeal 2025 to 2026 because it holds nearly 300 years of Nuneaton’s history.
“Once a school for the town’s poorest children, it is deeply connected to the world of George Eliot, and now proudly serves all communities as a welcoming space for events and gatherings.
“For me, supporting the Heritage Centre means preserving Nuneaton’s story for our future generations."
The Centre is administered by a group of Trustees who have worked with the aid of lottery and other grants to improve the appearance of the building, which is owned by the Council, but run and financed by local people.
Money from the appeal will be used to restore the stonework at the Centre on Avenue Road.
A JustGiving page has also been set up to make it easier for people to donate.
You can keep up to date with the progress of the appeal on the dedicated Nuneaton & Bedworth Mayor's Appeal 2025/26 Facebook page.
John Burton, Chairman of the Trustees, said:
“We are thrilled to be able to work with the Mayor to enhance what is already a very popular venue as a heritage centre and as a community centre.
“We cater for our diverse communities and provide a meeting space for Slimming World, Yoga, Drums, Nuneaton Writing Circle, Nuneaton Bird watchers, Nuneaton Historical Association, Treacle Tarts WI, Escape Art, Nuneaton Festival of Arts, the George Eliot Fellowship, Nuneaton Learning Centre, the Anker Morris Men, Craft Fayres, Book Sales and afternoon teas.
“There are also many more occasional groups and a large number of social groups from the Muslim and Nepalese communities, as well as visits from about 25 schools every year to our Victorian Schoolroom Experience.
“All these regular visitors, as well as visitors to our displays in the Heritage Centre, will be delighted that the Mayor is putting his confidence in what we do.’’