There followed two and a half years of work to build a team of trustees and a Steering Group while also refining and developing the core ideas and creating a network of supporters.

Early pump-priming backing came from the University of Winchester together with the Winchester City and Hampshire County Councils. 

In spring 2008 the Trustees launched publicly the campaign to create the English Project and to achieve its aims. Financial support was then gained from the Heritage Lottery Fund to develop the concept of a visitor attraction. At the same time other ideas were being pursued including Kitchen Table Lingo, the collection of 'family language'.  

Arising out of these developments the English Project is now proceeding on a wide front, pursuing a number of  initiatives across a wide spectrum of media. Some of these undertakings will be self-funding while others will require sponsorship or partnerships. All of them, however, will be based on the clear objective of deepening understanding and awareness of the unfolding story of the English language to enrich people's lives and enhance their use of the language. Reports will be published regularly on the progress that is being made towards these objectives.

If you or your organisation wishes to contribute materially to the English Project so that it can realise its goals then please contact direct Evelyn Thurlby at e-mail Evelyn.thurlby@visitor-focus.com