Western Isles MP, Angus MacNeil is encouraging local churches to apply for funding from a special £15 million fund for the repair of roofs and guttering on vulnerable listed church buildings.

This funding, which was announced by the Chancellor in his Autumn Statement, has the potential to make a significant difference to communities around the country with many church buildings in urgent need of repair.

Eligible churches can make applications for grants between £10,000 and £100,000. Awards have to be allocated by March 31st and the deadline for submissions is 12pm (noon) on Friday 30th January.

This is a tight timeframe but the application process has been kept simple and straightforward.

The National Heritage Memorial Fund (www.nhmf.org.uk) is administering the scheme. Further details about the roof fund is also be available at here

Mr MacNeil said: “Churches form an integral part of the fabric of our community. This funding is available to repair roofs and guttering on listed church buildings.

“Many will know how expensive it is to repair churches and a lot of local fundraising occurs for this purpose. Therefore, I hope that those who need to do repairs on their listed church building will apply. In addition to repairing churches this will also create employment for people.”