TWO new initiatives will allow people to experience Wellington Monument - and its history - online and in person.
A new spotter guide and the National Trust’s first podcast audio guide, both hosted on the web, have been launched to tell the story of the historic Somerset landmark, it’s history, and the project to repair it.
The audio guide provides an insight into the history of the monument, it’s ups and downs and how such extensive repairs came to be needed.
Visitors are invited to listen on their mobile device as they walk up the beech tree lined avenue to the monument or wherever suits them.
It can be downloaded from Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and the National Trust app to listen to at any time as well as streamed online at nationaltrust.org.uk/wellington-monument.
Meanwhile, the spotter sheet is designed for families to share on the short walk to the landmark.
Visitors will be encouraged to spot various wildlife highlights along with more unusual objects, connected to the current £3.45 million restoration programme.
The spotter sheet can be downloaded at nationaltrust.org.uk/wellington-monument and from the National Trust app.
Helen Sharp, National Trust project manager, said: “We had originally planned to run scaffold platform tours for visitors to enjoy the views and see some of the damage being repaired.
"Social distancing rules prevent us from doing this for the time being.
2However, it’s presented us with the opportunity to tell the story of the monument in a different way, with the audio tour opening up the story to all, whether on site or on their sofa.
"And the spotter sheet is such a great way to keep the whole family entertained on their next walk up to the monument.”
On-site information detailing how the repairs are progressing can also be found via a news blackboard situated by the fence surrounding the monument.
This information will be updated regularly during the restoration period which is due to be completed in Spring 2021.
On Wednesdays and Sundays between 10am and 1pm, weather permitting, visitors will be able to donate on site and receive a genuine piece of stone from the monument with a certificate to prove it.
There will also be opportunities to find out more about the project with volunteers on hand to sign post to further information.
Rebecca Pow, MP for Taunton Deane, said: “Despite these unusual circumstances it is great news that the Wellington Monument project is making progress; while it is not possible to take a tour just now the audio guide gives a fascinating insight in to the project.
"Please do continue to support the scheme wherever you can.”
With just under £500,000 left to raise, the National Trust thanked everyone who has contributed to the appeal so far.
To find out more about donating to the appeal please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wellington-monument-appeal
SCAFFOLDING: The monument is currently being repaired and is covered in scaffolding
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