Amazing Glazing - Stained Glass Restoration

Dear supporter, 

I wanted to let you know the good news that, as a result of your gift to last year's Amazing Glazing appeal, we've been able to complete another major piece of restoration work this winter: the restoration of two large stained glass windows in the Females Pool. The windows were removed in January, fully restored with new leading between the panes and replacement glass for where panes were missing or broken, then put back in place in brand new frames. Ready for another 100 years of Manchester weather!

So thank you again, your gift to the crowdfunder meant that we had more than we needed for the Windmill Window, which meant we could plan more stained glass work in for 2020. And thank you to the following individuals who made substantial gifts to ensure this work could happen this year: Jill Earnshaw, John Lucas and Mark Watson. 

Here's a photo of the new windows being installed, excuse the scaffolding and the netting (which is there to protect visitors should any small pieces of roof come down - that's the next big job!):

Covid-19 and Victoria Baths

And now for the bad news: Victoria Baths like all other heritage charities has been hit by a major loss of income since the onset of the Covid-19 crisis. We were almost ready to open for our first tours of the season on 1st April, when the Government advised people to stay at home to save lives and protect the NHS. Our open season from April to October is when we bring in most of the income that helps us to run the building. The Trustees have been addressing the situation and have furloughed six staff to reduce costs, whilst also applying for grants and other funding. Two members of staff have reduced their hours, and three other part-time members of staff are keeping on top of the finances, event enquiries for as and when we re-open and keeping the building safe and secure. We've also set up an emergency crowdfunding appeal, Back the Baths. 

If you are able to support us once more, we would be very grateful for your donations to this appeal. We're offering some guided tours, Friends memberships, tote bags and tea towels as rewards, or you can just make a gift. From this Saturday, seven Manchester-based artists will be making their work available as rewards on the appeal page. If you can share the appeal page with friends and family, that would also be wonderful.   

Please stay safe and well. 

With best wishes from all at Victoria Baths, 

Gwyneth Brock

Fundraising and Marketing Officer

#backthebaths