The weather is drawing in and the temperature is dropping. Having forgotten how cold it gets at Wellington Monument it was great to have something to warm us up – a good bit of laughter!

The capstone, the very top of the monument, is sat on the ground waiting to be put back into position with the crane. This should happen, all going to plan, in a few weeks. The pyramidion stones are ready to be craned back up and it is on these that the capstone will rest again. These pyramidion stones are the huge ones weighing in at more than a tonne, if not nearer two. The stone itself is limestone. For anyone who has had a piece of stone in return for a donation, they know just how heavy even a small piece is. Also, how dusty!

We have all heard the stories of people jumping over the top of the monument. It did take a while for the penny to drop as I realised the capstone was on the ground and hence people were leaping over this. So, I thought I would give it a go. With high-vis and hard hat on, we approached the stone. I have to say there was no way I was able to even leapfrog it – let alone jump over it! It is at least a metre high! However, the fabulous Mark Holland, from the construction team, did try. Hence the laughter that warmed us all up.

One of the stonemasons has been recording the steps they climb – 250 up to the top to work on the stone on the top third. They have realised they have climbed as high as Everest and are now returning down the other side, so to speak.

Thank you to everyone who has donated for a piece of the stone. John Greenshields, a Monument champion, and a fine team of helpers have raised more than £1,000. Absolutely incredible. A few pieces are still left, which can be found at the monument car park on Sundays from 11am-4pm, weather permitting. People have been taking it for grandchildren, for their garden or as a paperweight. One has even gone to Wellington, New Zealand.

What is also wonderful for us all as a team, is how many people are visiting. Over half are first-time visitors and a quarter haven’t been in years. The site was buzzing on Sunday with happy people enjoying their stroll. So good to see.

Thank you, as ever, for all the support you give. If you would like to chat or have any ideas, contact me on [email protected] or phone me on 07779 454246. I look forward to hearing from you!

EMMA JONES

National Trust community

fundraiser and engagement officer