The Lieutenant-Governor of Guernsey, Vice Admiral Sir Ian Corder, and Lady Corder had an exclusive tour of the Little Chapel this week to learn about the current fundraising project by The Little Chapel Foundation to restore the historic local landmark to its former glory.
They were accompanied by members of the Little Chapel Foundation and Catherine Best, who has committed to raising much needed funds for the charitable foundation to help them reach their target of £500,000.
The Little Chapel was gifted to the people of Guernsey by three French monks in 2016 and The Little Chapel Foundation is working hard to raise money for the necessary renovations to make the landmark safe for years to come. The project is in its second phase of work to make the building watertight, reinstating the floor in its original form and installing new doors, signage and information boards.
“'Kathryn and I both thoroughly enjoyed our first visit to the Little Chapel, which really is a Guernsey treasure. We look forward to sharing it with our guests over the next few years. We were also very impressed by the comprehensive renovation work that the Little Chapel Foundation is undertaking, to preserve a truly unique attraction for the Bailiwick. It's a bold and very important project and we wish them every success,” said his Excellency.
Chairman of The Little Chapel Foundation, Pat Johnson, said: “It is truly Guernsey’s little chapel for the first time in its history and we are committed to restore it so that it can continue to be a much loved attraction for both islanders and visitors. I’m so happy that Catherine Best and other businesses have come forward to help us raise essential funds, we have been blown away with the support we have received so far.”
Catherine Best has already helped to raise thousands for the ongoing project and, as part of her fundraising efforts, is organising a ‘Dress to Impress’ ball at Beau Sejour on 14 October with all proceeds going towards the Foundation.
“I remember visiting the chapel as a little girl and loved visiting it again recently to see exactly where the funds raised are going. When I heard about the project, I jumped at the chance to get involved. Our team have been working hard over the last few months to plan this special event to raise money for the Foundation and tickets are selling fast,” she said.
The event will feature an auction where items will be sold on the night.
Raffle tickets have also been on sale for the chance to win a Hyundai i10 premium hatchback, donated by FCG, the parent company of UK insurance provider 1st CENTRAL. Tickets can be purchased for £20 from The Mill, St Martins and a lucky winner will be drawn on the night of the ‘Dress to Impress’ ball.
FCG group chairman and chief executive officer, Mike Leonard, said: “At FCG it is our aim to support and enhance the communities in which we do business so it is great to be able to help an initiative that improves an important part of Guernsey’s history. When Cathy approached us to help, we were so happy to get involved in a project that will help to maintain this special place so people can visit it for generations to come”