THE CAMPAIGN to fund the upkeep of the historic Rivington Terraced Gardens has been boosted by sponsorship from the Freemasons.

Rivington Freemasons have now signed up for a three year "gold" sponsorship deal and have given their first annual pledge of £1000 to the gardens.

They join several other companies whose support is helping the gardens to reach its more than £100,000 annual maintenance costs including The Visionary Charitable Trust, United Utilities, Portfolio Design, Ducklings Day Nurseries and VolkerStevin.

Local Freemason group chairman Peter Allen said: "We are extremely proud to be a gold sponsor and are really pleased that the Rivington Freemasons have the chance to support Rivington Terraced Gardens.

"Community engagement is very important to us and we know how much of a vital role this beautiful area has played in supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of local people, especially during the pandemic."

For the Freemasons, sponsoring the gardens is the latest in a series of charitable causes they have supported in the region, including Derian House Children’s Hospice and Ecclesholme Care Home.

Rivington Terraced Gardens offers sponsorship packages ranging from bronze, silver, gold and platinum worth £250 to £2500 per year.

In return, clients receive benefits ranging from pre-notice of events, discounts for corporate days at the gardens and promotional advantages.

Rivington Heritage Trust director Richard Galloway said: "Not only is Rivington Terraced Gardens one of the most historically important gardens in the UK, it is a vital asset to the community, and this has been especially true during recent times.

"We can only continue to look after the gardens thanks to the very kind generosity of our supporters and corporate sponsors.

"It is fantastic that Rivington Freemasons have come on board as gold sponsors to help us realise our aspirations for the gardens over the next three years and beyond and we are very much looking forward to working together and developing our relationship over the next few years."