Plans are underway to install a staircase in the tower at Biddulph Old Hall as a tribute to the man who helped to bring the historic local landmark back to life.

It's hoped that the tower at Biddulph Old Hall can be complimented by an oak staircase in memory of Nigel Daly, who helped to renovate the 16th century building with his partner Brian Vowles.

Sadly, Nigel recently passed away aged 72, and during his lifetime he had always hoped to install an oak staircase in the tower.

Now Brian and those helping with the continued work on the hall are determined to finally get the staircase installed as a memorial to Nigel.

They eventually intend to hand the hall over to a charitable organisation so it can be enjoyed by the general public.

The details of the project were outlined in Nigel's funeral order of service.

It said: "The Tower at Biddulph Old Hall was a project that Nigel was passionate about.

"It was not only the restoration itself, but the opportunity it presented to create a small Prayer Room or Chapel on the middle floor of the tower.

"Nigel wanted it to be a chapel of reconciliation for the forces that brought the Elizabethan Mansion to ruin.

"The double height, or Banqueting Room, at the top of the tower we intended to dedicate to the memory of Robert and Caroline Bateman, with all their collected artefacts and drawings placed for all to see.

"It is a romantic space, complete with fireplace, which resonates with their spirit.

"During Nigel's lifetime it was a constant frustration that other demands prevented us from achieving the full funds to install the oak staircase in the tower.

"David and I have resolved to install the staircase as a lasting memorial to Nigel and the inspirational work he oversaw on the restoration of the hall.

"In due course we intend to hand over Biddulph Old Hall to a charitable foundation, preferably Perennial (formerly the Gardeners Benevolent Fund) so that it may be enjoyed by the general public in perpetuity as a living memorial to both Nigel, Brian and David.

"We ask that any donations in Nigel's memory please be made to our restoration fund, specifically for the completion of the Memorial Staircase."

If you would like to donate, the bank details are:

Account: Old Hall Restoration.

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