TAUNTON Deane Borough Council has donated £10,000 towards the restoration of Wellington Monument.

The donation was pledged at the launch of a fundraising campaign by the National Trust to raise funds so a full programme of essential repairs to the monument can be carried out.

The trust, which began caring for the monument in 1934, intends to work on the most damaged parts of the structure first which include the top third and the bulging north face.

Additional works to the remainder of the obelisk will be added as fundraising continues.

Cllr Mark Edwards, executive councillor for business development and asset Management at TDBC, said: “I am delighted that the council is able to contribute to the restoration of this landmark monument.

"It’s a popular destination with easy access and fabulous views that many people from all over Taunton Deane enjoy and we are grateful that it is being preserved for future generations.

"I would urge everyone who can to get behind this project and make a donation if they are able.”

Dr Joanne O’Hara, the council’s heritage at risk manager is leading the conservation management programme of a number of high profile regeneration projects in Wellington.

She has been working closely with the National Trust on their campaign to restore Wellington Monument to its former glory and will continue to have input in the project.

Helen Sharp, project manager for the National Trust at the Wellington Monument, said: “We are absolutely thrilled by the Council’s announcement.

"We know that the monument is special to many people within the local area.

"This generous donation will help us secure its future and hopefully encourage others to support us too to meet our ambitious fundraising target.”