Paving the way to a present for the future!

Why not give your nearest and dearest the chance to be a brick and help with Prittlewell Priory Charitable Trust's crucial restoration of one of Southend's most precious heritage buildings?

Those who sponsor a brick in the Priory Path on behalf of a family member or friend can make history by having a personal message engraved on it.

The path will link the new visitor centre to the restored Prittlewell Priory, a former Cluniac priory dating back to the 12th century.

Sponsors will be given ceremonial certificates as well the chance for a special preview of the completed path and visitor centre and a place at the grand opening ceremony in June.

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council's Executive Councillor for Culture and Tourism, Councillor Derek Jarvis, a trustee of the project, said: "This popular brick appeal has already raised more than £13,000 and it is continuing to create a great deal of interest.

"For those who are struggling to find a really original Christmas gift this would make an ideal and lasting present, linking with the past and the future."

Prittlewell Priory is being conserved and restored thanks to a Heritage Lottery Fund grant and funding from Cory Environmental and the Friends of Southend Museums.

A blog written by Southend Museums Service's Conservator Claire Reed follows the progress of the restoration with lots of inside stories and photos. It can be found on the Southend Museums Facebook page.

Work is due to be completed in May and when it officially re-opens on Saturday 16th June the Priory will be even more accessible to all.

Visitors will be able to walk in the footsteps of medieval monks and those of the Victorian Scratton family.

The new eco-friendly visitor centre will provide space for learning, a gift shop and modern public conveniences.

If you would like to sponsor a brick visit call 01702-434449, visit http://www.southendmuseums.co.uk/ or pick up a flyer at the Priory itself or any other branch of Southend Museums Service - the Central Museum, Southchurch Hall or the Beecroft Art Gallery.

Those intending to give the sponsored brick as a Christmas present should note that the closing date for Christmas orders is 5pm on Thursday 15th December.