Christchurch, in Ilkley, is celebrating after receiving £7000 from the Yorkshire Historic Churches Trust, for vital repairs to the roof and gutters.
Home to a number of community and interest groups, Christchurch is a very busy and popular meeting place. However, wear and tear over the years has led to urgent repair works being needed on the roof and gutter and essential re-pointing stonework.
Thanks to the generous efforts of the congregation, community fund raising, and other funders, this latest grant means the work is now almost complete.
Rob Hilton, Minister at Christchurch said: “We are delighted to receive this grant from the YHCT. What started out as a relatively small piece of repair work inevitably snowballed in to a major renovation project, but thanks to the effort of the congregation, the local community and funders such as the YHCT, we are pleased to be underway”. He continued: “Christchurch’s vision is ‘Christ at the centre of the church at the heart of the town’. As such, the Christian worship, and the gathering of local clubs and groups under our roof both provide a focal point in the centre of Ilkley. This repair work will ensure the building is fit for purpose and can continue to provide a spiritual home for the local community and visitors alike.”
David Quick, Chair of the Yorkshire Historic Churches Trust said: “Over the centuries, churches have defined landscapes and brought together communities. However, many of the county’s much loved places of worship have long been in need of urgent repair and restoration” He continued: “We are delighted to be able to make this award to Christchurch, to help repair a much loved church in the local community”.