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STUMP UP SOME CASH, AMERICA!

09:45 - 19 February 2008

A High society reception is being staged for the great and the good of the American city of Boston - in aid of a Lincolnshire church.

The exclusive bash will be held at the residence of the British Consul General to New England Dr Philip Budden in the salubrious Beacon Hill district of Boston, Massachusetts.

It will mark the official launch of the American Friends of the Boston Stump - a group of US-based fund-raisers aiming to help Lincolnshire's St Botolph's Church raise £3m for restoration work.

St Botolph's - better known as the Boston Stump - celebrates its 700th anniversary next year. A vast renovation programme is planned to get the building in a fit state for the landmark event.

As reported in the Echo, the American fund-raising wing was set up last year after a visit to the US by the Vicar of Boston, the Reverend Robin Whitehead.

St Botolph's has received financial help in the past from wealthy Bostonians who appreciated the historic ties between the two.

Boston MA was founded in 1630 by pioneers from the Lincolnshire coastal town, led by John Winthrop.

The friends group was formed to use these cultural links in an effort to raise 3m - about £1.5m - towards St Botolph's £3m restoration appeal.

Catherine Clark, president and chief executive of the American Friends of the Boston Stump, said people in the city had really taken St Botolph's appeal to heart so far.

"We have been so moved by the building, the people and the ancient and modern history that this is definitely a labour of love," she said.

The American campaign, which now has legal permission to raise tax-deductible gifts, has proved so popular that there is a waiting list for next week's official launch, which has a capacity of 65 people.

Guests are expected to attend from the city's historical societies, churches and business world - and will get a rallying call to begin the fund-raising in earnest.

St Botolph's, which stands 272ft tall, is one of the largest parish churches in the country.

Boston Stump Restoration and Development Appeal manager Peter Coleman said: "Originally Catherine said the target would be 1m but they have now got their board together and they have set a 3m target, which would be marvellous if they can reach it."

Mr Whitehead, who will give a speech at next week's reception, said: "I am looking forward to meeting all our friends in Boston USA. I am also going to promote the 700th anniversary celebrations and invite all our US friends to come and celebrate with us."