Generous grant for city landmark continues late chairman’s legacy

The Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha Foundation has given an £800,000 grant towards the restoration and renewal of Leicester Cathedral, reaffirming its place at the heart of the Leicester community by providing vital support for a city landmark which attracts 130,000 visitors each year.

The Foundation was renamed last year in honour of Leicester City FC’s late chairman, the billionaire businessman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, who tragically died in a helicopter crash at the King Power Stadium in October.

The funds will be entrusted to Leicester Cathedral Revealed, a project aimed at restoring and protecting the historic Grade II listed building. The money will be used to build a new heritage centre and renew the Cathedral’s sacred spaces.

Srivaddhanaprabha first supported the Cathedral with a grant in 2014 towards the reinterment of Richard III.

Leicester City chief executive Susan Whelan said: “The Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha Foundation is very proud to support the restoration of Leicester Cathedral – an asset of great value to people of all faiths in our multicultural city.

“Since its formation, the Foundation has aimed to support causes that make a difference to the lives of people in Leicester – an objective we remain wholly committed to in the delivery of Khun Vichai’s legacy.”

The Very Revd David Monteith, Dean of Leicester, added: “This is such a transformational gift. Khun Vichai was so supportive of so many important causes in Leicester and it is heartwarming to see the Foundation continue his legacy.

“I believe this donation sends out a strong message that this is a project which will benefit all our communities because it will enhance the individual experience of being within the Cathedral – whether you come as a visitor, a pilgrim or a worshipper. We now have £2.3m left to raise and this support has given us confidence that we will reach that target.”