Schools in Wythenshawe came together to present more than £6,000 to the Friends of Wythenshawe Hall, bidding to restore the fire-hit historic building to its former glory.

Chair of the Friends group Richard Jackson said: “After the fire we were devastated, but to see schools and children working so hard to raise funds for us has given us a huge lift.”

Headteacher of Sandilands Primary School, Joan Grant, who organised the cross-schools efforts, commented: “I was amazed at the response I had when I contacted other schools, there was a real eagerness to take part.”

A total of 19 schools raised funds.

Members of Friends of Wythenshawe Hall dressed in Tudor costume to welcome pupils and staff from the schools at the Courtyard Café in Wythenshawe Park, before performing a specially written poem. MP Mike Kane thanked the schools on behalf of the community, taking time to greet each school child and mention their school.  Mike reminisced about learning to play cricket in front of the Hall during his schools days and said: “I am talking to the Council about making the Hall a great place for today’s children and future generations.”

Vice Chair of the Friends group Paul Selby, who was one of the first at the scene of the fire, said: “It is fantastic that the schools and children have become involved – we do what we do for them and the community and it gives me a great sense of pride to see their interest and love for the Hall.”

Much loved local landmark Wythenshawe Hall was damaged due to a fire in the early hours of Tuesday 15th March, taking more than 50 firefighters to put out. The building, built in 1540, suffered extensive damage to the bell tower, roof, first floor and timber beams. The Friends of Wythenshawe Hall have begun fundraising to have damaged parts of the building restored, hoping to re-open within two years.