Churches across South Gloucestershire set to benefit from share of £70,000 funding

The grants from the Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust (GHCT) will help keep churches in Cromhall, Yate, Cold Ashton and Mangotsfield in a good state of repair for the future.

A contribution of £5,250 has been made to Holy Trinity church in Cold Ashton to help pay for the work, following a callous attempt to steal lead from the roof, leaving them with a £60,000 repair bill.

Cromhall Evangelical Chapel received £500 towards the cost of a new landscaped and floodlit signboard, and Yate Methodist church was awarded £250 towards ceiling repairs.

In Mangotsfield, the ancient church of St James is adapting to meet the needs of a growing local population. A planned re-ordering project will make the church safer and more useful for the community today, as well as securing it for future generations.

“GHCT’s £8500 grant is a real boost for the project,” said Rev Teresa Taylor, vicar at St James.

“Levelling the floor will make the church more accessible, flexible seating will help us make the most of a small space, and installing a toilet will mean we can offer valuable community services like a drop-in café, and lunch groups.”

The project aims to enhance and preserve the historic features of a building that has served worshippers in the area for hundreds of years.

GHCT launches its annual Ride+Stride event this Wednesday at St James the Great in Dursley at 6.30pm, following the AGM in the Methodist church which takes place at 6pm. Supporters can pick up an event pack, meet others taking part, and find out how to help.

GHCT Chairman Nick Talbot-Rice said: “We’re delighted to be able to help so many churches with a variety of really worthwhile projects. We rely on the amazing efforts of everyone who takes part in Ride+Stride each September and would encourage anyone who appreciates our county’s fine churches to get involved.”

Full details of grants awarded, and the Ride+Stride event, visit www.ghct.org.uk