Dame Vera backs bid to protect White Cliffs

DAME VERA Lynn has pledged her support to a fundraising appeal for the White Cliffs of Dover – the striking landmark of which she once sang.

The Forces’ Sweetheart, so christened after her performances of the 1942 classic helped lift the spirits of British servicemen, said it was “vital” to preserve the cliffs, which are the subject of a protection campaign by the National Trust.

The conservation charity’s £1m campaign is aimed at buying 700,000 square metres of land immediately behind the clifftop which it secured in 2012.

This will enable the restoration of habitat and land conditions, improve public access and inspire future generations to connect with the heritage and history of the area, the charity said.

Dame Vera said: “Those white cliffs mean a great deal to so many people. They were often the first sight of home for our brave boys as they returned from war, and they continue to represent important British ideals such as hope and resilience even in the most difficult of times.

“It is vital we do all that we can to preserve this important historical site – as well as the Cross Channel battery – for posterity, so that the memory of the past is never forgotten by future generations.” Virginia Portman, White Cliffs of Dover general manager, said: “The site should be open for the whole nation to enjoy.

“It would be devastating if we lost the opportunity to protect it forever. A successful appeal will not only allow us to secure the land but also educate and inspire future generations.”

Visit www.nationaltrust.org. uk/appeal/urgent-white-cliffsappeal to donate.