The Tuesday Welcome group from St James’ Church, Heckmondwike were up on the roof this Easter to share the news they have been granted £176,500 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for major repairs to their church roof.
The project aims to repair and recover the roofs of the church on Church Lane in the centre of town and will remain open throughout the duration of the repairs, which should be completed by winter 2017.
The roof project, organised by the members of this almost 200 year old Church, is intended to ensure that the building is dry, watertight and secured as a church for many more years. The total cost of the project will be £217,976. The church building is a major asset for the people of Heckmondwike. In addition to major repairs on the roof the project there will involve the Church at Heckmondwike in a variety of heritage activities to include: producing materials that will allow people in the community to find out more about the Church, its heritage and its buildings; researching and publishing articles on the heritage of the people of the Town, whose names are listed on the war memorials in Church and other community activities.
Commenting on the award, Revd Karen Young, the Vicar of Heckmondwike said: “We’re delighted that we’ve received this support from the National Lottery players. Through the Lottery contribution, we are all winners, as repairing the roof will help us to maintain this beautiful building for the foreseeable future. Our church has provided a place for worship, live entertainment, and large group activities for almost two centuries, and it’s great to know that we are a step closer to preserving it for a further two hundred years”
The Tuesday group, pictured here, meet every Tuesday in the Church Community room from 10am -1pm for a chat, a cuppa, a game of bingo or a quiz and a light lunch. Everyone is welcome.