Corporate partner for Cathedral

11:30am Sunday 23rd November 2008

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A WORLD Heritage site welcomed the first “corporate supporter” to back its development programme, on Thursday of last week.

Minerals and transport operator Hargreaves Services became Durham Cathedral’s pioneering primary partner.

The 14-year-old company, based on the cathedral’s “doorstep” at Esh Winning, is the first business to take advantage of the scheme to foster the support of the area’s corporate organisations.

Partners can take advantage of various opportunities to “experience the cathedral” and see at first hand the difference their contribution is making to its development programme.

It includes invitations to special events and services throughout the year, as well as opportunities for clients and staff to explore behind-the-scenes at the Norman-built cathedral.

Funds raised will be directly channelled into the development programme.

Launched in June, it aims to raise £7m over the next five years to enhance the contribution the cathedral’s heritage, education, tourism, arts and culture, and ‘community outreach’ programmes.

The Dean of Durham, the Very Rev Michael Sadgrove, who looks forward to a “fruitful partnership”, hopes Hargreaves will be the first of many partner companies.

Pat Phillips, the company’s corporate events and public relations manager, said: “It’s not just an iconic building, but an enduring monument to human skill and endeavour. It is a living thing, a vital part of the wider regional community, something we should value and cherish.”

Further details about the programme are available from the cathedral’s head of development, Gaye Kirby, or by emailing development@durhamcathedral.co.uk, or by ringing 0191-386-4266.