Join us in final push: £125,000 crowdfunding appeal to secure future of Lauderdale House

And today the Ham&High series is joining them in launching an online crowdfunding appeal, and is asking readers to join a final push.

The arts and education centre is in desperate need of restoration so it can remain a landmark on the Highgate skyline for decades to come and continue to welcome in thousands of people.

It is now asking for the community to give back to the treasured 16th-century house and help them raise £125,000 to complete the transformation of two upper-floor galleries.

The works will mean the house would be financially viable for the first time in its history. But it is now or never, according to director Katherine Ives.

She said: “We need everybody to put their shoulders to the wheel, and then everybody will benefit.”

The Lauderdale Transformed: The Historic Galleries campaign asks people to give as much as they can, from £5 to £50,000, by donating online.

The money will fund restoration works to the Long and Upper Galleries to make them fully accessible with the installation of a lift and a staircase with handrails.

The spaces will also get a complete face-lift, and original features will be restored.

As a result, the 16th-century house can host more events, and in turn, raise more money.

Ms Ives said: “We are so near and still so far. We need to do this now otherwise we are chasing an ever-increasing target.”

She added: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Benefits are on offer for those who donate.

They range from a virtual “thank you” on Lauderdale’s website for £5, while £50,000 will earn you the right to name one of the galleries.

Geoff Martin, editor-in-chief of the Ham&High series, said: “I have visited Lauderdale on many occasions and it’s an enchanting place with a wonderful, and in some ways, mysterious history.

“It is a great asset to the community and we are proud to assist with their fundraising campaign as it enters its final stages.”

Donate online.