Fundraising – Legacies

Leaving a legacy in your will can make a long-lasting difference.

Our work is dependent upon the generosity of our supporters and gifts left in wills (legacies) are especially important.  Such legacies may be large or small, but all can have an important impact on the survival of our local waterway and the benefits offered to our local communities.

Over the years, much of the work of The Basingstoke Canal Society has been possible because of legacies left by individuals, with a practical workforce provided mainly by volunteers.  Put simply, we couldn’t have done what we have over the last 50 years without these legacies, and for that support we offer our thanks.

Please take a look at our leaflet to see some examples of how legacies are helping to keep the Canal alive today.

You don’t have to be wealthy to leave a gift in your will; whatever the amount – large or small – we are extremely grateful for any gift that is left to the society, once you have looked after family and friends in your will.

In Memoriam

A gift in memory of a loved one is a wonderful way to remember them, especially if they had a love of the Canal.  You could set up a special fund in their memory, or request that family and friends make a donation rather than giving flowers at a funeral or memorial service.  The Society can help you decide how you would wish any such donations to be used so please do get in touch with us if you feel this might be something you would like to do.

How to include The Basingstoke Canal Society in your Will

If you do not have a Will – The Society cannot give you specific advice on how to create a legacy and we strongly recommend that you engage a solicitor to ensure your wishes are set out just as you want them.

If you already have a Will – you can talk to your solicitor about updating your Will, or you could complete a codicil (amendment) to be stored with your Will.  The Society has a codicil form with guidance that will help you with this, and which can be downloaded in either MS Word or PDF format.  If you prefer please contact The Society for a hard copy form.

When making a Will, or codicil, please be sure to use the Society’s full legal name. ‘The Basingstoke Canal Society Limited, No.1296593’ (Registered Charity number 273085).

The Society’s registered address is: The Basingstoke Canal Society, Chancery House, 30, St Johns Road, Woking, Surrey, GU21 7SA.