Following a successful grant application, we’re thrilled to announce £247,361. support from @HeritageFundUK for our St Michael and All Angels, Mottram in Longdendale - The Church on the Hill, project which will ensure it remains on the hill for another thousand years.
A huge thanks to #NationalLottery players! #HeritageFund.
It is believed that there has been a church of some description on the site of War Hill since the 11th Century. Even with the most devoted care and attention, the ravages of time in such an exposed location will eventually get the better of any building – even if it is a church.
This harsh location, over hundreds of years, has eventually left St Michael’s suffering from water ingress through the tower roof, a failed heating system, and a damp environment, that were having a detrimental impact upon the heritage of the building.
Support from the Heritage Fund of £247,361 has helped to pay for essential repairs to halt the ravages of nature and time and preserve its rich heritage for another millennia.
Work started in September, and it is envisaged that all building and heating works will be completed before the end of December providing a lovely warm and dry environment for the Christmas period.
The National Lottery Heritage has been incredibly supportive as we have undertaken this major project to preserve the heritage of the church. We have also received generous donations to support the project from the Garfield Weston Foundation and the Benefact Trust.
Once the capital work is finished, we still have things to do with regards to a modest but realistic community programme designed to support the locality and encourage more people to experience the rich heritage that is St Michael and All Angels – the church on the hill.
More to follow…watch this space.