Stump Cross Caverns near Pateley Bridge has set a new fundraising target as it prepares to re-open on May 17.
Lisa Bowerman and Nicholas Markham, who own the limestone caves, set an original crowdfunding target of £50,000.
But this has been raised to £65,000 after the public rallied to save the attraction, which has been open to visitors since 1863.
The total currently stands at almost £61,000.
The extra money will enable the site’s 3D virtual tour to be upgraded, which the couple hope will engage schools and improve inclusivity:
Lisa said:
“It’s all about education. The 3D tour will allow children to interact from their classrooms and learn about something new.
“You have to adapt and evolve to survive in this new world and this technology is not restrictive, even people who can’t physically go in caves can now see them, so it’s inclusive.”
Enjoy a taste of the 3D Virtual Tour of the caves thanks to @apollothreed – we are only 7 days away from the end of our crowdfunder and your chance to #savethecave and win our #campervan https://t.co/9leEu32Fm5#virtualtour pic.twitter.com/L9xMhe26Wy
— Stump Cross Caverns (@stumpcrosscaves) March 23, 2021
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Lisa and Nicholas were denied money from the covid Culture Recovery Fund and said they have lost almost £400,000 since the beginning of the pandemic.
If the fundraising campaign hadn’t been so successful, the caves wouldn’t have been able to reopen.
Lisa hopes the new £65,000 target will be reached but said the last push has “definitely been tougher, we seem to have lost momentum”.
The couple’s beloved camper van has been put in a prize draw for anybody who donates £10 to the cause.
Lisa added:
“I am so grateful and so thankful for everyone that’s helped. Nearly 4,000 people have donated, which is unbelievable. Mentally, it’s been very hard but I’m feeling positive about the final week of fundraising.”
