Much-loved 16th century house in Lancashire is given timely cash boost
A treasured 16th century house in Lancashire has received an early Christmas present from the government’s Culture Recovery Fund. Hoghton Tower received more than £100,000 from the third round of the fund, which will help to keep it open and pay for staff.
Jane Smith, Education and Development Officer at Hoghton Tower, said: “Everyone at the Hoghton Tower Preservation Trust is grateful to the government for this support during such challenging times.
“The funding means that we can not only continue to operate, covering the high overheads associated with maintaining a Grade I Listed Tudor Elizabethan manor house, but also to improve and adapt to life in 2022 and beyond.”
Hoghton Tower’s award of £116,500 will enable the trust to maintain the building and site and preserve stonework and rainwater fixtures.
Across England, almost 140 heritage organisations will benefit from £15.5million this Christmas.
Heritage Minister Nigel Huddleston said: “I’m delighted that this vital funding from our unprecedented Culture Recovery Fund is giving so many brilliant heritage organisations a helping hand this winter.
“I want everyone to enjoy what our fascinating and diverse heritage has to offer and with this money we’re safeguarding these organisations for generations to come.”
Hoghton Tower, situated between Preston and Blackburn, is hugely popular with the local community, many of whom are trained volunteers.
Jane added: “The award means that vital preservation work can take place and ensure that we are able to share this historic Lancashire landmark with both our current visitors and those who have yet to discover Hoghton Tower.”