WHEN I started this job last summer, I had no idea how exciting it would be. The community surrounding the monument – and beyond – have been so welcoming and supportive. It is definitely the most fun I have ever had with a project!

It felt at times that the day work started on site was in the distant future but it is now beginning. I have promised so many of you the day would come and to know that the scaffolding lorries will start to arrive in October is the best feeling. The scaffolding will take 12 weeks to build. It will be enormous. I have to say – it will be monumental!

The Go Wild nature events were again great fun. One day we had 160 visitors and the Common Blue butterfly stole the show. It is so lovely seeing people with picnics and butterfly nets. Again, tree listening with John Greenshields was a winner.

For any of you who would like to spend a few hours at the monument to hear and see what is happening, come to our open days on Friday and Saturday, September 20 and 21, 10am-3pm. Visit and learn about its special history. As the project to repair it commences, you can learn about all aspects, from the wildlife which calls it home to hearing the stories of a soldier at the Battle of Waterloo. Yes, we will have a soldier in character from the battle and a couple of his comrades there. It will be a day suitable for all ages. No booking required and it is a free event.

We are also doing a fundraising event at the Beambridge Inn on Friday, November 8, at 7.30pm. The Cleverly Everly and 60s Tribute Show is performing and it will be a fabulous evening. Tickets are £20 and include a delicious hot meal. Tickets can be bought from The Beambridge or phone 0344 249 1895 to book through the National Trust. Tickets are selling fast.

For those who haven’t heard me talk about Wellington Monument – there must be a few of you left – please come to St Luke’s Church in Langley Marsh on Friday, September 27, at 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 and proceeds will be donated to renovation projects at the church. Remaining tickets will be available on the door but to make sure you have a seat, phone Alison on 01984 623338.

Last but not least do not miss out on the most amazing raffle ever! The Monumental Sunflower raffle has the most incredible prizes including a glider flight around the Monument. The money raised will be shared between the Wellington Monument renovation fund and St Margaret’s Hospice. Tickets can be found in Odette’s Tea Room, The Cottage pub, Moonbeams Farm shop, Nurtured by Nature, Oake and Stawley village shops and Rockwell Green.

For any more information on anything to do with Wellington Monument or any of the above please email me at [email protected]. I can honestly say, we are nearly there!

EMMA JONES

National Trust fundraising and community engagement officer