Christmas funding boost for Devon Churches

Two Devon churches  have received grants from the National Churches Trust which will help to ensure their future.

St George’s Church in Modbury has received £20,000, which will help fund major repairs to the roof. The work will ensure the Grade I listed building, dating back to the 13th century, is warm and dry and can continue as a widely used community facility.

St James’ Church in Jacobstowe has received a £5,000 grant towards a project to make the building suitable for community use. The National Churches Trust Community Grant will help to install a modern damp-proof floor to the nave, replace the fixed pews with movable pews and stacking chairs, provide simple catering facilities and a WC in the vestry.

The Grade II listed building dates back to the 12th century and underwent major remodelling in the 15th century when the tower was added. In 1902/03 the church was restored, the chancel lengthened by five feet and the vestry was added to the south side.

The work has the support of the community as there is no other building in the parish available for community use.

Broadcaster and journalist Huw Edwards, Vice-President of the National Churches Trust said: “I’m delighted that this Christmas the future of St James Church, Jacobstowe is being safeguarded by a National Churches Trust grant. This funding will help ensure that this beautiful church continues to serve local people for many years to come.”