THE CAMPAIGN group aiming to buy the area known as the Heavens have given a promising update on their fundraising. 

Stroud’s Heavens Valley campaign is now more than halfway to its initial fundraising target of £300,000.

Many people who have previously pledged have converted their promises into money, with many pledgers donating more than they’d originally promised.

The campaign has also received many new donations from people who had not previously pledged and is urging everyone to dig deep and give as much as they can.

More than 250 people have also now bought shares in the Heavens Valley Community Benefit Society (HVCBS), which, if sufficient funds are raised, will own the iconic Heavens Valley and surrounding woods and land on behalf of the whole community.

HVCBS spokesperson Karen Thomas said: “Stroud people are making it clear how much they love the valley and are being incredibly generous, but we still need more to be sure of saving the land.

"All the money raised in this first phase means that the Society will have to borrow less from the two local individuals who are providing bridging loans to help the community purchase the land.

“Once the £300,000 milestone is passed, the HVCBS will forge ahead with raising the remaining £550,000 to repay our lenders and so secure the land for the community for ever.

“I urge everyone to visit our website to find out more about becoming a shareholder and making a donation.

"Please also come to our public meeting to learn more and have your questions answered.”

The public meeting is from 7pm to 9.30pm at the Trinity Rooms, Field Road, Stroud on Sunday, September 29. 

There will be a licensed bar, with profits going to the campaign.

Entry is by free ticket at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/heavens-valley-cbs-public-meeting-tickets-1012869488907