Charity behind Hackney’s magnificent Abney Park raises £12k+ in donations

Abney Park Trust, which champions the biodiversity and heritage of Stoke Newington’s cherished cemetery and woodland, has surpassed £12,000 in donations since it launched its pandemic fundraiser back in March.

The Trust, which promotes the Park’s history, wildlife and role in the community, launched its coronavirus (Covid 19) fundraising campaign after the pandemic put a stop to in-person events and other fundraising opportunities.

The £12,331.01 which it had raised by mid-July will allow it to continue with its major operational priorities, such as the curation of events, audio tours and publications.

The improved programme of online events is already well underway, and self-guided walking tours are available on subjects like the Park’s woodland wonders and its proud association with the Abolitionist movement.

The Trust is also looking to develop its monument restoration programme, and seeks to use some of the raised funds for that end.

Recent monument restoration projects have included repairs to the Portland sandstone statue of the hymn writer and Abney’s founder, Sir Isaac Watts, which stands proudly at the heart of the park.

Those who wish to donate are welcome to do so here.

The Trust is keeping a close eye on government and local authority guidance on the provision of in-person events and services, and is currently developing a plan for relaunching these.

Please keep a check on our events pages for more information.

Tom Walker, Chair of the Abney Park Trust, said:

“The thousands of pounds we have received in generous donations will give us crucial breathing space as we plan our programme of events for the next few months.”

“The money raised will go towards ensuring that this magical urban woodland remains an accessible, vibrant nature reserve and heritage site for local people to enjoy,” he added.

The cemetery, which is one of London’s “Magnificent Seven”, is operated by Hackney Council and has remained open throughout the pandemic.

“Reassuring” and “beautiful”: Abney’s lockdown legacy for Hackney

It has provided an essential public space for people to explore and exercise in during the unprecedented lockdown period.

Earlier this month the park was described by Financial Times journalist Adrienne Klasa: as “beautiful and overgrown with tombstones cascading into one another and being pulled apart by vines”.

It is “reassuring to see daily life taking place among these monuments to the past,” Klasa wrote.