Hello from Wellington Monument! After almost five months on furlough, I am happy to be back with the project. I have missed the renovation of the largest three-sided obelisk in the world – I just had to say it! I have also missed all the new friends I have met along the way. But, back now and raring to go and looking forward to catching up with you all again.

On returning I have found the fabulous volunteers hard at work. Obviously with the cancellation of the scaffold tours, we had many disappointed people before lockdown. Forty incredibly enthusiastic volunteers had signed up to lead visitors, wearing their hard hats, up to the viewing platform. We had learnt the facts and figures about the conservation work, the 1st Duke of Wellington, the Battle of Waterloo and even the flora and fauna around the monument itself. We were ready.

Unfortunately, due to Covid-19, it has not happened. However, a fine engagement and fundraising group have continued. You can find them on Saturday between 2-4pm and Sunday from 11am-4pm next to the avenue leading to the monument. They have pieces of Wellington Monument stone to be taken home in return for a donation towards the renovation. Amazingly, most of the stone removed is good enough to be built back in. You may pick up your piece of the monument and receive with it a Certificate of Authenticity. What a wonderful present for anyone who loves the monument! I have a small chunk on my mantlepiece and a larger one in my flower bed. I look forward to hearing the ideas you have for yours.

Talking of stone, the deliveries from the quarry have continued. The stonemasons have worked all the way through. Social distancing is easy on a structure as huge as it is – fresh air circulates easily up on the scaffolding! It means the project should be completed in the late spring, as planned. When you next go for a walk, you might get to see and hear them, tapping away at work. Some of the pieces of stone weigh up to 1,500kg. Incredible.

Wellington Monument also has its own audio guide that you can listen to on the National Trust website or download – from Spotify, Apple or Google podcasts – when you have your walk. There is also a new spotter sheet for children to follow – find it on the Wellington Monument homepage.

Please get in contact with any questions or ideas. The fundraising effort continues and if you would like to donate to the project either contact me directly or donate online at https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/appeal/wellington-

monument-appeal or email me at [email protected] I look forward to hearing from you.

EMMA JONES

National Trust community fundraiser and engagement officer