THE parish church of St Cadoc Raglan in Monmouthshire has received a confirmed grant of £147,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for a major reroofing project, it was announced yesterday (2nd March).

The project aims to restore the stone clad roof of the building and work will now start in the spring taking about six months.

The reroofing became necessary when stone tiles became dislodged causing water penetration and a danger beneath. In addition the grant will enable modifications within the building to enhance it as a venue for community activities (concerts, meetings, debates etc.)

The Church building, parts of which date back to the fourteen hundreds is a focal point for the community having been a centre of worship for centuries. Currently apart from regular weekly services a limited number of activities can be accommodated but with the addition of a kitchenette and disabled access many more can be planned for the future.

With enhanced visitor information, guidebooks and QR codes, this historic building will also be more accessible to the general public.

Canon Tim Clement leader of the Raglan Ministry Area expressed his huge gratitude to HLF and all those who have brought this project to life. He said, “Without the incredibly hard work of the local team and the generosity of HLF and others, this refurbishment could not take place. St. Cadoc’s already plays a significant part in the life of the community, and we wish that to continue, not only as a place of worship, but also as venue for a variety of other activities which will help to build and develop good relationships with both individuals and as many different groups of people as possible.”

The Right Revd. Richard Pain Bishop of Monmouth said: “‘The parish church of St Cadoc’s, its clergy and people offer an important resource to the community of Raglan.  This substantial grant will ensure the continuity of this service and enhance the facility for everyone. Congratulations to the project team and all their hard work.”

Nick Ramsay AM and local Raglan residents were delighted to hear that the local team of volunteers had been able to secure grants to restore this wonderful parish church enabling it to further play its part in the local community.

Richard Bellamy, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund Wales, said: “Places of worship are among the UK’s most historic buildings, with fascinating stories behind them. Thanks to National Lottery players, this money will pay for urgent repairs at St Cadoc’s Church, whilst also helping to tell the stories of this special place to visitors. As a result the building itself will be more used by the whole community, and properly cared for into the future.”

St Cadoc’s Church Raglan is now part of a larger Ministry Area within the Church in Wales and the larger Anglican Communion.