Cash needed for Thomas Paine project

The high street listed building was the home of revolutionary writer

Thomas Paine and the Sussex Archaeological Society wants to make it

accessible to the public for the first time.

The society has collected nearly enough donations to open up the home for visitors at weekends but it still needs another 1,743.

A spokeswoman for the society said: 'The house will be open for those interested in Tom Paine to be able to visit where he lived while in Lewes.

'But we will only be able to make this particular project happen with the support of external beneficiaries.

'All major grantors and donors will be recognised and recorded on a board in one of the rooms open to the public.'

Donations will be used to refurbish the building and replace the railings outside.

Special boards and leaflet would also be set up around the building, exploring the life and writings of Tom Paine, who lived there from 1768 to 1774.

He was one of the town's most famous citizens, reputed to be the intellectual inspiration behind the American Revolution.

The black-and-white timbered building itself dates from the 15th century and it is still used as offices by the society.

The decision to open Bull House came after members of the public kept making enquiries to have a look around inside.

If enough money is raised the building would be open from the summer of 2008 to pre-booked guided groups.

It will be the bi-centenary of Tom Paine's death in 2009.

For further details visits www.sussexpast.co.uk.