Captain Le Lacheur was a notable Guernseyman with historic links to Costa Rica in the mid-19th century. He was the major player in the country’s coffee trade with the UK and is revered in Costa Rica. A project to create a feature film of his life is being pursued.
The first stage of the renovation of the headstone, which was found badly damaged in Highgate Cemetery a couple of years ago, has been completed.
The memorial suffered a serious structural failure when the headstone broke away from its base and slid down a steep bank behind the grave, where it became wedged against a tree. Cemetery staff initially installed a temporary restraint, after which specialist conservators from the London Stone Conservation Company recovered the stone and carried out essential stabilisation and corner repairs.
This first phase, including the careful re-positioning of the headstone, cost £8,500 and was funded through generous contributions from donors in Guernsey and within the London-based Guernsey Society.
Although now secured and upright, the stone remains in extremely poor condition, with most of the inscription virtually illegible. The next stage will involve professional cleaning of the marble stone by stonemasons Luxtons.
Founder Neil Luxton has four decades’ experience as a stonemason, working from his studio in Suffolk on private commissions and restoring listed memorials for the National Trust and English Heritage.
Luxtons has been recommended by Highgate Cemetery, and has quoted £3,400 for the cleaning, with further specialist work required thereafter at significant cost to restore the lead lettering.
‘This headstone is not just a memorial to one man and his family, but a tangible link between Guernsey, Britain and Costa Rica,’ said Keith Le Page, chairman of the Guernsey Society.
‘Completing stage one is a significant milestone, but we now need the public’s support to ensure Captain Le Lacheur’s legacy is properly preserved for future generations.’
The appeal is also being supported by His Excellency Rafael Ortiz Fábrega, Costa Rican Ambassador to the United Kingdom.
Donations are now being sought to ensure this important memorial is fully restored.
Contributions to the appeal can be made through the Guernsey Society by contacting Marguerite Talmage via margueritetalmage@gmail.com or on 07911 719081.
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