A crowdfunding campaign to save Stump Cross Caverns from closure has almost reached its target of £50,000.
Owner Lisa Bowerman launched the campaign last month by raffling off her prized camper van to raise vital funds. At the time of writing it’s on over £45,000 with 18 days still to go.
She said she expects to reach the goal over this weekend which she said will be a “huge relief”.
“We’re gonna smash it!”.
Lisa said launching the crowdfunder has been “the most nerve-racking thing I’ve ever done” but the response has shown how much the popular ancient limestone cave system is loved.
She said the business has missed out on £350,000 over the past 12 months due to covid lockdowns and restrictions. She was delivered a further blow after being refused a covid grant for cultural venues by the government.
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If the crowdfunding campaign is successful, as expected, they plan to reopen for visitors on May 17.
But if the campaign had failed Lisa said she might have closed Stump Cross Caverns down and returned to her previous job as a children’s nurse.
The draw for the camper van is expected to be made on March 31.
Lisa paid tribute to everyone who has donated so far:
“Without the support we would have had to close. They’ve saved us.”
