IF you haven’t been along to Seaham Harbour yet to see artist Ray Lonsdale’s First World War soldier on the sea front, you should (Echo, June 17). The detail is awe inspiring.

I tried to get Durham County Council to purchase Ray’s Private Michael Duffy sculpture last year, but I was informed there was no funding available.

The county council should have been at Seaham to see the crowds that were there on the day I visited to see what an asset these sculptures could be.

I was informed Seaham Town Council has given a £20,000 injection to the fundraising, which needs to reach £85,000 to keep the sculpture in the town.

Good luck, Seaham. I gave my donation and hope everyone else does. For further details visit www.mission1101.co.uk or Facebook page Mission1101.

Donations can be made by texting TOMI70 £(insert amount) and send to 70070.

Mary Rowntree, Durham.