A HISTORIC Ardrossan church has received a five figure funding boost which will assist them in carrying out urgent repairs.
St. Peter's in Chains Church has been granted its share of £437,000 being given out to churches across the nation by the National Churches Trust.
The Ardrossan place of worship has been allocated £20,000 from this National Churches Trust Cornerstone Grant, as well as an additional £10,000 Wolfson Fabric Repair Grant from the Wolfson Foundation due to a reccomendation from the National Churches Trust.
This money will now be put towards urgent window and roof repairs, required after many years of persistent water damage.
Father Duncan McVicar, Parish Priest and Project Leader, said: “The church of St Peter in Chains is a real 'eye-catcher' positioned on the shore of Ardrossan South Beach.
"St Peter’s has been at the heart of the community here since its beginnings in 1938 and is one of the unique ‘Coia Architect’ buildings, which always reveal unusual features in the design.
“The position of the church, constantly facing the elements, has brought about the urgent need for repairs, particularly to the roof and the windows.
"The ingress of water in the church itself has become a serious issue where quick action is needed. The Grants from the National Churches Trust and the Wolfson Foundation are essential and much needed that make this work possible.”
“I would like to sincerely thank both the National Churches Trust and the Wolfston Foundation for the professional process in dealing with our grant application and for their tremendous support in making our project possible. St Peter in Chains will continue to be lasting sign of heritage for the future because of your support.”
The grade A-listed church in fact dates way back to the 1600s, with its original churchyard stood on Castle Hill, where its foundations are still visible.
It was blown down by a violent storm in 1691. In it were altars to Saint Peter and the Virgin Mary. The present church was dedicated in October 1938.
Broadcaster and journalist Huw Edwards, Vice President of the National Churches Trust, said: "I’m delighted that St Peter in Chains is being helped with funding for urgent repairs to its windows and roof. This will safeguard unique local heritage and keep it open and in use for the benefit of local people.
“Whether seeking quiet reflection, access to community services or a place to worship, the National Churches Trust helps hundreds of churches each year and with the support of local people keeps them thriving today, and tomorrow.”
The National Churches Trust awarded funds to 41 churches across the UK, while an additional 21 benefitted from a share of £134,000 of Wolfson Fabric Repair Grants.
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