The Tank Museum has been running a fundraising campaign in support of its planned restoration of a Cold War-era M47 Patton, and with a substantial private donation, the fundraiser is closer than ever to its £50,000 goal. Now, the museum is making a final push for donations, in the hopes of collecting the remaining £5,000 needed to bring this historic tank back to running condition.
In a press release, the Tank Museum revealed the £15,000 donation had been provided by William Bannister. A few months ago, it was announced fundraising efforts had brought in half of the £50,000 needed for the restoration project, with this most recent donation inching the campaign closer to completion.
At present, just £5,000 pounds is needed for it to hit 100 percent completion.
In the release, Chris Van Schaardenburgh, head of collections at the Tank Museum, praised Bannister’s generosity and prior work with curators. “We are hugely grateful for this generous donation towards the M47 restoration project,” he stated. “We have worked closely with William Bannister for many years. His collection of historic vehicles and support of the Museum’s Workshop and restoration projects has been invaluable.”
He added, “The Bannister Collection compliments our own running fleet of significant Second World War tanks, which allows The Tank Museum to put on shows like TANKFEST and Tiger Day.”
Work on the M47 Patton is underway, with engineer Matthew Pyle aiding the museum in its efforts to bring the famous tank back to life. Pyle recently completed his own M47 restoration project, making him the ideal choice to help the Tank Museum in its own work.
Those interested in donating can do so through the Tank Museum’s website, with the option to give in £10, £25, £50 and £100 increments. Each donation comes with its own perks, from a special thank you on social media, to a chance to get up close and personal with the tank once it’s restored.
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The Tank Museum aims to have the Cold War-era tank ready for TANKFEST 2025, which is taking place from June 27-29.