Stump Cross Caverns have launched a final fundraising campaign to ‘Save the Cave’ as they bid to prevent the business from going under.

The popular tourist attraction near Pateley Bridge had been forced to close to visitors for the majority of last year due to Covid-19.

And now owners Lisa Bowerman and Nick Markham are raffling off their VW Campervan in a bid to save the business from a difficult financial situation.

Ticket sales alone are down by more than £350,000 as visitor numbers have dropped from an annual average of 60,000 to just 15,000.

To help prevent its doors closing for good, Stump Cross hopes to raise £53,000 in funds through its latest two-part crowdfunder appeal.

The first lets supporters pledge as little as £10 to enter a life changing prize draw to win a luxury, low mileage, 66 plate, Volkswagen T30, Campervan, donated by owners Lisa and Nick.

Commenting on the fundraiser and the financial impact of lockdown Lisa said:

“We’ve worked tirelessly to offer an outstanding experience to all our customers since we took ownership of Stump Cross Caverns 18 years ago. Visitors have marvelled at the magical splendour the caves have to offer thanks to its beautiful grottos and benefited from the recent refurbishment of our café, 50-seater cinema, and exclusive chill out zone, known as the Time Out Pod.

“Sadly, with no clear opening date on the horizon, all of this is under threat unless we raise vital funds to keep us up and running. Our latest crowdfunder appeals will hopefully mean that we can continue to welcome visitors to the Caverns for many years to come.

“By pledging donations, our supporters will not only have the chance to win some truly amazing prizes, including our very own state-of-the-art VW Campervan and five memorable Stump Cross experiences, but they will also be helping us and our local suppliers, continue trading and keep tourism alive in the Yorkshire Dales.”

Stump Cross Caverns

Stump Cross Caverns are hoping to raise enough money to stop the business from going under.

Alongside the campaign, Stump Cross are running a second appeal that offers people the chance to take part in a £500 draw, with five prizes up for grabs. Each lucky winner will receive memorable Stump Cross experiences, all activated upon the site reopening.

Prizes are individually worth £100 and include:

  • Exclusive use of the newly refurbished cinema for up to six people (Food and drinks include)
  • Annual Family Cave Pass.
  • A day relaxing in the recently renovated ‘Time Out Pod’. Breath taking views of the Dales and private dining included. Valid for up to six people.
  • £100 in vouchers, to be redeemed onsite.
  • A freshly cooked meal for up to six people in ‘The Time Café’.

Find the VW Campervan fundraising page here – tickets are £10 and will go towards supporting the survival of Stump Cross Caverns. You can also take part in the prize draw here.

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