St Cadoc's Church fundraising committee have announced that donations and local fundraising events have recently seen the community 'Raise the Roof' fund increase to £8,551.00.

They have also received support from The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) who have awarded initial funding of £30,300 with the possibility of a further £162,300 next year.

The aims of the campaign are to carry out essential work to replace and restore the roof of St Cadoc's Church which has recently fallen into disrepair due to its age.

It is envisaged that as part of the overall project the amenities at the church will also be upgraded to include a kitchenette and improved access. It is envisaged that the work will commence in early 2015 with the first phase concluding in September 2015.

The project also aims to ensure the ancient building continues to play an active role in the community, not only as a centre for Christian worship with close links to Raglan VC School but also as a community facility for the village and the surrounding area. The church plays host to a wide range of groups offering a venue for concerts and recitals as well as many social events.

The award-winning Raglan History Detectives, led by Dr Cheryl Morgan, is a testament to the role the church plays and contributes to children's education within the village.

St Cadoc's Church is part of the Church in Wales. The first church in Raglan was constructed in the 6th century. Alterations to the church include 15th century work and partial restoration in 1698 (after damage during the Civil War).

A Victorian restoration and enlargement took place in the 1860s. The church is a Grade II listed building and is situated in a conservation area. As such it forms a valuable part of the village's heritage.

Rev Tim Clement, Vicar of St Cadoc's Church, said: "We are delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund has given us this support. This is really encouraging and will help us on our way. The church here in Raglan is the focal point of the village and forms an integral part of the community.

"It is great to know that we are a step closer to preserving St Cadoc's for future generations as an active place of worship and a resource for use by the whole community"

Jennifer Stewart, Head of HLF in Wales said, "Wales' many churches are an important part of our shared heritage and are strongly associated with the local identity of the communities they serve. We are thrilled that this project has been awarded an initial grant so that the church can now go ahead and develop its plans further to compete for a firm grant award from HLF".