A CONSERVATIVE M.P. is urging the Minister of Public Buildings

and Works, Mr. Charles Pannell, to nationalise what he describes as the "most beautiful ruin in the world" — Fountains Abbey, near Ripon, Yorks.
The M.P. is Sir Malcolm Stoddart-Scott, who represents Ripon. He said this week that he first suggested that the State took over the 12th century Cistercian foundation two months ago. "I told the Minister he would be supported by all parties," he added.
The abbey was put up for sale last week for the second time in four months—and now Sir Malcolm plans to put down a question in the Commons or write personally to the Minister about its future.
The State has compulsory purchasing powers if private owners fail to maintain it properly. The picturesque abbey is included in a lot consisting Studley Royal House and park, plus 550 acres.
Local people fear it may be bought for commercial use, perhaps as a showplace. Mr. Edward Leeming, tenant of nearby Fountains Farm, said he thought the National Trust or some other national body should take over the building.
A spokesman for JacksonStops and Staff at York, who are acting for John D. Wood and Co. for the owners, said the Ministry of Public Buildings and Works would not allow any alterations to the abbey without permission. There was a State grant for repairs and excavation work.
pOUR HUNDRED men who work in the machine tool maintenance department and tool room at Vauxhall Motors, Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, hare "adopted" the Nazareth House Children's Orphanage at South Road, Crosby.
Every other home in Wirral or North Cheshire has already been "adopted" by another
group among the 11,000 employees at Vauxhall. The men are planning a bumper Christmas for the youngsters at Crosby, Including a visit from Santa Claus. Throughout the year they will remember every boy's birthday. The money will come from weakly subscriptions and raffles. (PICTURE ABOVE.]