Colchester: Generous pair help Roman Circus campaign reach £60,000 (From Essex County Standard)

Colchester: Generous pair help Roman Circus campaign reach £60,000

9:00am Friday 1st January 2010 in News By Wendy Brading

A couple celebrating their diamond wedding have forgone presents to donate money to help save Colchester's Roman circus.

Allan and Margaret Berry, who are both 90, decided instead of swapping presents they would pledge £1,000 to the campaign.

Colchester Archaeological Trust and destination Colchester are trying to raise £200,000 to buy the Sergeants' Mess, which is home to the starting gates of the ancient chariot racing circuit's gates.

So far, donations from the public have topped £60,000 - including the generous contribution from Mr and Mrs Berry.

£2,000 has also been given by the Friends of Colchester Museum.

• Anyone wanting to donate to the appeal can send a cheque to the Colchester Archaeological Trust, 12 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3NF. Cheques should be made payable to the Colchester Archaeological Trust. Alternatively log on to the Friends of Colchester Archaeological Trust website friendsofcat.org.uk and click on the Donate Now button or go to romancircus.org.

If the bid to buy the Sergeants' Mess is not successful, donations will be returned.