Sponsors

European Agricultural Regional Development Fund (EARDF)

Agreeing a total grant of £1,427,906.40 this really was the catalyst to kick start the entire project, and was the largest grant awarded under this programme covering 80% of the total build.

The European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EARDF) scheme in the United Kingdom was a crucial component of the country's rural development strategy, designed to address various challenges and opportunities in rural areas. The scheme aimed to enhance the economic, social, and environmental aspects of rural areas by funding projects that promote innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness.

The scheme supported a variety of projects, such as investing in agricultural practices that reduce environmental impact, promoting rural tourism, improving infrastructure like broadband and transportation, supporting local businesses and startups, and fostering community development.

The Bamford Charitable Foundation

Under the stewardship of Lord & Lady Bamford, The Bamford Charitable Foundation has extended its generosity to organizations situated within a 40-mile radius of the JCB factory in Rocester.

With unwavering commitment, the Foundation kindly agreed to provide a contribution towards the requisite matched funding, enabling us access to the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EARDF) grant.

The steadfast support of the Foundation for this project has not gone unnoticed, and we express our profound gratitude for their instrumental role.

The Garfield Weston Foundation

The Garfield Weston Foundation, established in 1958, is a prominent charitable institution with a rich history of philanthropic contributions. Founded by Willard Garfield Weston, a Canadian businessman and philanthropist, the Foundation has played a significant role in supporting a wide range of charitable causes across the United Kingdom and Canada.

The Foundation established grant programs that provide financial support to registered charities and non-profit organizations. These grants have enabled organizations to undertake projects and initiatives that have a positive impact on communities.

The Foundation agreed to provide a contribution to the matched funding which allowed us to access the EARDF grant.

We would like to express our profound gratitude for this contribution.

The Headley Trust

The Headley Trust, founded in 1986, is a charitable foundation that has been dedicated to supporting various causes and initiatives aimed at improving communities, the environment, education, and the arts.

The Trust was established by Sir Jack and Lady Philips, aiming to provide financial assistance to a diverse range of charitable projects and organizations. The Trust was founded on the principles of philanthropy, seeking to make a positive impact in areas that align with its values and the founders' passions.

The Trust agreed to provide a contribution to the matched funding which allowed us to access the EARDF grant.

We would like to express our profound gratitude for this contribution.

Moorlands Partnership Board

The Staffordshire Moorlands Partnership Board is a collective effort involving local authorities, community representatives, organizations, and stakeholders. Its primary objective is to promote the holistic development, well-being, and sustainability of the Staffordshire Moorlands region.

The board focuses on empowering local communities and residents by addressing key issues and challenges that impact the area. Through its initiatives, it aims to amplify the voice of the Moorlands community and ensure that their needs and aspirations are effectively addressed.

One of the central functions of the board is strategic planning. It works on identifying the priorities, opportunities, and challenges faced by the Staffordshire Moorlands and formulating strategies to address them effectively. This includes initiatives related to economic growth, infrastructure development, community engagement, and environmental stewardship.

The partnership agreed to provide a contribution to the matched funding which allowed us to access the EARDF grant.

We would like to express our profound gratitude for this contribution.

North Staffordshire Railway Company (1978) Limited

The NSRC is the official charity supporting the Churnet Valley Railway. From a combination of their own funds, and fund raising via initiatives, the NSRC have contributed a part of the matched funding required to access the EARDF grant.

We are delighted to continue to work with the NSRC on delivering this project.

Private Donors

Private individuals who generously donate money to support our project have enabled us to plug the gaps in the matched funding required to access the EARDF grant.

These philanthropic efforts often stem from personal values, empathy, and a desire to contribute to the growth of projects, organizations, and initiatives that might not otherwise have sufficient resources.

Whilst these individuals have wished to remain anonymous we are very grateful for their ongoing support.