THE bells will continue to ring out across Evesham after the Abbey Bell Tower Appeal hit its target.

After 18 months of intense fundraising, the appeal reached its goal of £500,000 after those involved with running the appeal "lived and breathed" fundraising to restore the iconic tower.

The Bell Tower, which has stood proud above the historic abbey for almost 500 years, was in desperate need of repair.

After standing against the elements for so long, every part of the bell tower was falling further in to disrepair and wouldn't stand for much longer without restoration.

After deciding to take on the mammoth task of repairing the tower, keeping it a part of Evesham life for years to come, the fundraising team — who were backed all the way by your Evesham Journal — say they are "so proud" that the dream can now become a reality.

Sue Ablett, chairman of the appeal, said: “We are hugely proud of what we have achieved and what it means for the town.

"I always thought we would do it. We stayed optimistic and it paid off.

"Our much-loved Bell Tower can now be restored for the benefit and enjoyment of all, and for future generations to come. It has been hard work. For over a year, Stan Brotherton, appeal treasurer, and I lived, breathed and slept the appeal, but it was well worth every minute.

"Diana Raphael and the ringing master, Chris Povey, have also been hugely hard-working members of the committee, with others serving for short periods during the appeal. It was a great surprise to learn that Charlie Homer, who was mayor through the most active period of the fundraising, has chosen to recognise the efforts of Stan and I by the presentation of a Civic Award.”

It was always intended that grants would contribute around three quarters of the total needed, and in the end around 85 per cent of the £500,000 came from grants.

An award of £200,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund, and £50,000 from Evesham Town Council's New Homes Bonus, took the appeal a long way towards its total.

A donation of £25,000 from Severn Waste and £5,000 from the Rooftop Community Fund helped the appeal towards its goal.

But members of the public made sure the target was hit, organising countless events such as runs, walks, swims, exhibitions, auctions, open gardens, collections and displays.

Stan Brotherton, appeal treasurer, said: “Many thanks to everyone who has contributed to the appeal, whether organising a fundraiser, coming along to one of the events, or simply putting a coin into a collecting tin.

"In late 2012 we knew there was a problem. In 2013 we received draft costs and began to plan the appeal. In 2014 the fund-raising was in full swing, and I managed the development phase of the project.

"Now, in 2015, with your help, we have raised our target and the urgent conservation work is starting. A great achievement for everyone involved, and a source of great pride for Evesham.”

The appeal is now officially closed, having reached its target, but there will always be ongoing maintenance costs associated with the Bell Tower.

The appeal trust will remain open to receive any donations.