Michael Cannon
The Sherborne’s revival is a testament to the extraordinary generosity and drive of Michael Cannon.
His vision for Sherborne House was realised in the spring of 2024 and continues to be built upon, marking a significant chapter in the history of this heritage landmark.
Small beginnings
Michael Robin Cannon was born in Bristol on October 22 1938. He was the only child of Frederick Cannon, a carpenter and joiner, and his wife Mildred, known as Diddy, née Thompson, an active and accomplished amateur artist.
After the war, his parents acquired the tenancy of the Gaiety pub on Christmas Steps in Bristol, giving their son an insight into the hospitality trade.
In honour of ‘Diddy’
Severely dyslexic and entrepreneurial from a very young age, Michael left Southville Secondary Modern at 15 and travelled the world by boat with P&O before returning to Bristol with a will to succeed in life and business.
Many years later, having achieved great financial success in hospitality (an industry he knew well), Michael wanted to honour his late mother’s artistic prowess and give back to the arts community in Dorset. In 2018, he purchased Sherborne House and established The Sherborne House Trust (1179440).
Michael Cannon married Sally Brown in 1967. She was involved in his many business ventures and remains an active advocate and champion of The Sherborne.
Leave
A Legacy
Michael died on June 2 2023, aged 84, after a short illness, and The Sherborne was his last great renovation project.
We’re handing a glorious house back to the community with a mission to champion the richness of art for everyone, preserve the past, and build a legacy for the future.
Why Donate?
The Sherborne House Trust 2018 is an independent charitable trust (1179440). It aims to restore, preserve, and maintain Sherborne House, including the Thornhill Mural, and foster, promote, and provide facilities for the public’s participation in the arts.
The Sherborne is home to the exquisite nationally significant Baroque mural by Sir James Thornhill, the renowned artist behind the dome at St Paul’s Cathedral and the Painted Hall at the Old Naval College, Greenwich. The mural was recently meticulously restored to its former glory.
Sherborne House Trust 2018 relies on a dedicated team of volunteers, and all proceeds from the generous support of donors, membership, hospitality, retail and events support the work of the Trust.