Save our Cliffs

Save our Cliffs

The National Trust has launched a �1.2m appeal to secure the future of Kent’s iconic White Cliffs of Dover

The summer of 2012 has been one of the most historically important periods in British history. Combining the once-in-several-lifetimes chance to celebrate a reigning monarch’s Diamond Jubilee with the equally rare opportunity to host the world’s greatest athletes for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Britain has been well and truly thrust upon the global stage in recent weeks.

Now the National Trust is seeking to preserve another vital aspect of British history, starting with the launch of a �1.2m appeal to help secure the long-term future of the White Cliffs of Dover.

Parts of these much-loved Kentish cliffs have been looked after by our organisation ever since we acquired our first stretch in 1968 and today we manage more than 7km of the iconic Kentish coastline.

Now an opportunity has arisen for us to acquire a further 1.35km stretch between South Foreland Lighthouse and our visitor centre overlooking the port of Dover.

If successful, our appeal and subsequent purchase of this section will ensure easier long-term care for the cliffs as a whole, plus greater public access and a much-enhanced habitat for the area’s diverse wildlife.

Nic Durston, Assistant Director of Operations for the National Trust, said: "The White Cliffs symbolise a sense of journey and, since the Second World War have become as evocative for England as the Statue of Liberty is for the USA.

“These dramatic cliffs also epitomise why we all love the coast. If we are successful in this appeal it means that we’ll be able to manage this English icon to improve its value as a wildlife haven and visitor attraction.”

The White Cliffs of Dover have not only witnessed countless historical events but are home to a wide variety of rare and threatened wildlife including the Adonis blue butterfly and Oxtongue broomrape plant.

Funding must be received by the end of 2012 to help ensure that our conservation and management of the coast can continue on a wider landscape scale.

GET INVOLVED

People wishing to donate to the appeal can do so online at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/whitecliffsappeal (donors can also have their name engraved on a virtual White Cliffs of Dover)

Money can also be received via text by sending a short message including the amount being donated. For example, someone wishing to give �5 should text ‘DOVR02 �5’ to the appeal number: 70070.

Finally, people can donate via phone by calling 0844 800 1895.

WHITE CLIFFS EVENTS

• Junior lighthouse keeper training day, South Foreland Lighthouse, 27 July, 8 and 23 August, 11am-3.30pm. No booking necessary

• Teddy bear pirate party, 31 July and 13 August, 11am-3.30pm. Come dressed up and bring your teddy

• South Foreland Lighthouse open evening, 10 August, 6pm-10pm. Guided tour and picnic, �15 per person, booking essential on 01304 853281

• Build your own lighthouse, 17 August, 11am-4pm. No booking necessary. �5 per item

• International Lighthouse Weekend, 18 and 19 August, 11am-5pm. Enjoy lighthouse tours and themed activities.