Port Sunlight Village Trust launches appeal to restore Hillsborough memorial destroyed by vandals

Jun 24 2009 by Lorna Hughes, Bromborough and Bebington News

Port Sunlight Village Trust launches appeal to restore Hillsborough memorial destroyed by vandals

VILLAGERS are rallying round to re-build Port Sunlight’s Hillsborough Memorial after it was destroyed in a wrecking spree by vandals.

Port Sunlight Village Trust this week launched the Hillsborough Memorial Restoration Fund in a bid to restore the memorial to its former glory.

Pledges of free labour, publicity materials and cash donations have flooded in since the stonework surrounding the memorial was destroyed in the early hours of Sunday, June 7.

A village resident, who has asked to remain anonymous, has also offered to spearhead long-term fundraising.

The Trust is planning a series of fundraising events in the village later this summer and says it wants the memorial back in place as soon as possible.

Created by Unilever, the memorial garden is a focal point for families and friends to remember the 96 who were killed at Hillsborough on April 15, 1989.

A spokesman said yesterday: “Port Sunlight Village Trust has been blown away with support and pledges from individuals and businesses who wish to help with the restoration.

“We will be launching an official appeal, which will introduce a new page on our website, and events in August.

“Early estimates suggest the repair costs could be in the region of £40,000.”

A 13-year-old and two 16-year-olds were arrested by police last week in connection with the destruction of the memorial.

All three were released on bail pending further enquiries.

Donations for the appeal can be sent to: Port Sunlight Village Trust, 23 King George’s Drive, Port Sunlight.