Cerne Abbas Giant appeal reaches fundraising target in 60 days

An appeal to buy 138 hectares around the Cerne Abbas Giant raised more than £2 million, and the National Trust met its £330,000 fundraising target in 60 days.

An appeal to buy the land around the Cerne Abbas Giant in Dorset reached its target after 60 days. The National Trust says it raised £330,000 specifically to help fund the purchase and care of the surrounding 138 hectares. In total, more than £2 million was raised to buy the area known as the giant's lair, which includes Giant Hill and varied wildlife. The site has both natural and archaeological interest and is already designated in parts as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Key facts: - The National Trust raised £330,000 in 60 days to contribute to the purchase and care of 138 hectares around the Cerne Abbas Giant. - Total funds raised for the land purchase exceed £2 million, with donations from supporters in about 20 countries ranging from £1 to £32,000. - Giant Hill is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is home to 36 butterfly species. - The charity plans to restore chalk grassland, plant new woodland, and create a mosaic of habitats to support species under threat and help wildlife adapt to climate change. - Recruitment has begun for a local area ranger who will lead National Trust staff, contractors and volunteers, and the Trust intends to work with organisations including Butterfly Conservation. - In early summer, ten appeal donors who won a Crowdfunder prize will join staff and volunteers to re-chalk the Giant by packing about 17 tonnes of chalk into its outline. Summary: The acquisition hands responsibility for conservation and habitat management of the site to the National Trust and aims to support wildlife and landscape resilience. Initial work includes recruiting a local area ranger, habitat restoration plans, and partnerships with conservation groups. The purchase also opens opportunities for landscape-scale archaeological research linked to earlier findings on the Giant's probable Early Medieval origins.