The face of local fundraising for the Wellington Monument restoration project is off to pastures new following a send-off from volunteers.

Emma Jones, who has been the National Trust’s fundraising and engagement officer for the monument for three years, is moving on to become fundraising manager for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, based at Chelston Business Park, next month.

John Greenshields, on behalf of volunteers, paid tribute at the monument to Emma for the support she has given local fundraisers in raising thousands of pounds for the project.

He presented her with a piece of Monument stone mounted on a plaque with an engraving worded as from the monument itself – see separate box – paying tribute to the ‘boundless energy and tireless motivation’ she has contributed to its restoration. Champagne and cake were served under a perfect blue sky.

The remaining scaffolding surrounding the monument will soon be removed with the restoration completed by the end of June.

Emma, who officially ends working for the National Trust next week, said: “I’ve loved talking about the monument and have had so many happy days. I’ll take away hundreds of memories and have made wonderful friendships, too, especially in this group of volunteers.

“In the town, too – in particular John McCarten has contributed so many wonderful ideas – cards, puzzles and pictures; Nancy Powell-Brace has raised more than £7,000 from her individual initiatives, including her marathon walk; and Isabel Ward”

For the full story see this week’s Wellington Weekly News.