Hello,

I received an email on Friday night from the City Bridge Foundation. They consider the matter closed, but I have asked that I might be allowed a small window of time to save the trail. As it stands the majority will be cleaned off imminently. I still hope that it is not too late, and I have asked the City bridge Foundation (excerpt of letter below) if we can have access before they clean.. 
Fingers and toes all crossed � 
Thank you as ever for your support -
All the best- Ben 

Hello ....,
Thank you for copying me in. This is my first direct correspondence from the CBF since the 13th of October. Could you please let me know if my pictures have been destroyed? If not, I ask that you consider letting myself, or my representatives, have a three- four hour window on the bridge between the handover from FM Conway and Veolia. We will work quickly and follow any Health and Safety requirements. It is imperative that the most important pictures across the span of the bridge are saved. Particularly those which are dedications and memorials.  
If you could please take a look through the comments in the petition, you will see how much this means to people.

Ben Wilson’s chewing gum art is a valuable social contribution to the walk across Millennium Bridge, and even more fitting when on the way to visit the Tate Modern. It should be regarded as that, respected and preserved. Thank you.- Joe Dempsey

In my desire to prevent the destruction of a decade-long body of work, I made reference to a number in my petition, which is now being used by the CBF as though there has been a satisfactory outcome for all. A game of numbers misses the point of respecting and preserving a public art trail which celebrates people's lives.There was a lot of media attention when the petition started. I would be grateful if you could take the time to read this piece in the Courtauldian which expresses my feelings so succinctly. 

Hey Ben, I’ve been a fan of your work for a long time. During my first & tbh rather awful year in London, I was often coming to watch you work on Millennium Bridge on Fridays after work. Truth be told, it was one of those huge little things that helped me to feel at home there and I’ll always be grateful for this.Your work is fun, playful and inspiring, but also has this magical way of touching people's hearts at their core. I truly hope you will be able to save as many pictures of yours as possible  
Best of luck on Friday      - message from instagram

I am saddened that I might not be able to keep the trail alive. 

I feel it is important to share the public feeling of support I have experienced with you, which has been very moving regardless of the outcome. People's voices should be heard and celebrated. It's important to keep art alive in our environment. I feel a responsibility to try my hardest for those that have supported me,

All the best, and I look forward to hearing from you,

Ben