SPURGEON'S College has launched an appeal to fund a major development of its facilities.

The London-based institution, which celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2006, has earmarked improvements costing £2m.

Spurgeons has already managed to raise £1.5m itself, through the sale of a piece of land previously leased to Esso as a filling station and an adjacent college house.

The appeal target is therefore £500,000. A letter has recently been sent to churches and individuals with connections to Spurgeon's.

In it, college principal, the Revd Dr Nigel Wright announced, 'It is with great joy I can tell you we are ready to step out in faith and see our plans for the development of Spurgeon's College reach fruition.

'After 150 years it is time for us to once more invest in the future of this strategic institution.'

The appeal has three key areas; the refurbishment of the college library, the building of an atrium area, and the renewal of its student accommodation.

In addition, the college wants to develop its course and bursary opportunities.

Dr Wright said he believes the target is entirely achievable, in spite of the current difficult financial environment.

'I know we are in challenging times at the moment, but I am also aware this is very much a God-given opportunity.

'The scale of this major development will only happen once in several generations.'

The appeal had been timed to coincide with the anniversary two years ago, Dr Wright revealed.

'Several times our plan appeared to be reaching a successful conclusion when yet another obstacle was thrown in our way, causing further frustration and delays,' he wrote.

'But we have never given up and always trusted that if we were following God's purposes, God would make a way for them to be fulfilled.'

The circumstances meant the college had frequently drawn encouragement from Hebrews 12:1-2, 'Let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.'

For more information visit www.spurgeons.ac.uk or phone 020 8653 0850

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