Former Nuneaton and Bedworth Mayor Cllr Bhim Saru’s appeal, which ran for a year from May 2025, raised a total of £25,762.80 for the Chilvers Coton Heritage Centre.
Cllr Saru said:
“The funds will go towards restoring the stonework at the centre, helping to preserve an important part of our local heritage for future generations.
“I would like to thank everyone who contributed to this appeal, the people of our Borough are well known for their generosity.
“Year after year they rally round to help the Mayor’s appeal and this year was no exception, and this generosity is much appreciated
“Once again, thank you to everyone for your great support, we could not have raised as much without you.
“I chose the Centre for my Mayor’s Appeal 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.’’
The Heritage 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 centre, which is owned by the Council, but run and financed by local people.
John Burton, Chairman of the Trustees, said:
“It has been a privilege and a pleasure to work so closely with Cllr Bhim Saru during his year as Mayor.
“Fundraising came from a wide cross-section of the community, including businesses, social groups, support groups, market stalls and individuals.
“One of the highlights was a weekend of multicultural events from across the borough at the Abbey Theatre which raised a staggering £3,600.
“The Centre itself put on a series of talks and slide shows and had a sales and donation table throughout the year to raise awareness of the Appeal.
“Some late donations are still coming in and we expect the total will reach £26,000.’’
This year’s appeal, spearheaded by Mayor Cllr Colin Cape, is raising funds for the The Guardians Grow Charity.