JOHN Tanner took inspiration from daughter Olivia and his love of theatre when deciding to do his bit for the Millgate Arts Centre’s auditorium appeal.
With Olivia currently on a round-the-world cycling trip, John also decided to put his foot to the pedal to raise funds for the renovation work.
So, after packing his paniers with provisions, he set off on a three-day, 150 miles ride from Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of William Shakespeare, back to Delph.
“I decided to cover the distance using wherever possible canal paths. It was slow going but there were few hills and no traffic,” explained John, a Saddleworth Players stalwart.
“On day one, I was able to experience the remnants of Storm Ali – all weather combinations and blocked tow paths from fallen trees.
“At least I didn’t finish up in the canal.
“The prize was cycling into Gas Street Basin, Birmingham which I would recommend going to see.
“Cycling via Stoke on Trent, Marple and Ashton Basin I finally rolled up in Delph with no punctures and in one piece.
“My aim was to raise £10 per mile, so £1,500 over 150 miles, and I am delighted to say that total has passed and is still rising.
“I want to thank all those who have generously supported me and having to suffer my annoying Facebook posts.”
The auditorium appeal was launched in June to raise £50,000 to refurbish the theatre in the summer of 2019, with half the money used to re-place the Edwardian-style cinema seats and the other half to improve ventilation, lighting, and staging.
“We’re over half way towards our target and are overwhelmed by the support from theatre-goers, our neighbours, local organisations and the general public for the appeal,” added John.
“We have lots planned through the autumn but still need support to raise the funds so we can commit early to the refurbishment.”
As part of the fund-raising campaign, last month’s Millgate Night at the Proms raised £1,530.66.
Profits from the December pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, from December 15 to 31 are also being donated to the appeal.
A show, ‘Telling the Wrong Man he had Cancer’, performed by doctor turned comedian Dr Kevin Jones, comes to Delph via the Edinburgh Fringe on March 16, 2019. The Royal Bolton Hospital consultant is also donating his fee to the appeal.
Theatre-goers have been sponsoring new seats and can help choose the final design as well.
There are three sample chairs in the theatre bar and people are encouraged to sit in them all.
“Tell us what you think and choose your favourite by voting with a purple counter in one of three voting jars,” said John.
For more details about Millgate Auditorium Appeal, to choose a seat to put your name on or to simply to make a small donation go online www.millgateappeal.org
For more details email John: johntanner@tannerbrothers.co.uk
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