Trustees at St Ethelwold’s House says a midwinter surge in donations has meant the appeal has reached £72,000, securing the future of the building.

There are still a few events and pledges to come, so the Fund will remain open until 31 January, when final figures will be confirmed.

Any additional money raised will help rebuild reserves after meeting the final costs of repairing the rotten timbers. Trustees says the level of generosity has exceeded expectations and will allow the work to be completed with confidence for the future.

Coming in just before Christmas, with the fund raising indicator, reminded me of the indicators for the Blue Peter Christmas appeals is the 1970s when lots of children collected old newspapers, used postage stamps, or aluminium foil to be turned into cash for life boats, children’s charities and emergency appeals.

It has been an inspiring time, hearing why St Ethelwold’s is appreciated in Abingdon. Trustees says they will continue to care for the house, the garden and the spirit of the place, so they can be cherished by future generations.

They look forward to inviting everyone to celebrate soon.