The community can make all the difference in bringing Magna Carta and Charter of Forest back to Sandwich.

Sandwich Town Council has teamed up with Discovery Park and the Mercury in launching an appeal to help bring the historic documents back.

The idea is to harness business support, community groups, schools and individuals who are able to give their time, skills or funds to help the cause.

Laura Fidler, Sandwich town clerk, said: “The rediscovery of Sandwich’s Magna Carta and Charter of the Forest, coinciding with the 800th anniversary of the signing of Magna Carta, offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate our national heritage and our town’s unique place in England’s history.

“Sandwich Town Council hopes that community groups and people of all ages will make the most of the celebrations, not only by viewing Visit Kent’s touring Magna Carta Rediscovered exhibition when it comes to Sandwich in the autumn but also by taking part in or developing local events and activities to mark the anniversary of a major milestone in the development of our country, government and legal system.”

The cost of conservation work, the cases and insurance is £35,000 and anyone who can help as little or as much as they can are urged to get in touch.

Already, there has been lots of support for bringing the documents to the town. Christies is currently undertaking a valuation of both documents for free.

Discovery Park has pledged its support too.

Kimberley Anderson, corporate relations manager, said: “We know that it means so much to the town and our local community.

“We want to help secure the return of these important documents understanding that they will reinforce our town’s historical value and we hope that we can actively encourage others to join us with their support.”

The council aims to run a legacy project with the charters providing an ongoing cultural, historical and economic benefit to the people of Sandwich.

It hopes schools in the area will teach pupils about the significance of the Magna Carta and get involved in art projects coinciding with the Visit Kent exhibition when it comes in September.

After the exhibition, a new and rejuvenated museum will be created to give the charters a long-term home.