The project will work with volunteers to launch a new Friends organisation and develop a programme of activities, once again making this ancient building accessible to the community after many decades of closure. This will enable the Stained Glass Centre to employ a part-time development officer to work with volunteers and supporters in developing a varied and exciting programme of events, lectures, classes, performances and tours based in one of York’s most historic ‘lost’ buildings. A new Friends organisation will be launched, and training and internship opportunities will be available.

Giving new life to one of York's finest medieval buildings, The Stained Glass Trust, based in the retired historic church of St. Martin cum Gregory in York, is developing as a national resource for the discovery and interpretation of stained glass. The building has long been a destination for those interested in this fragile medium. As the Stained Glass Centre, it is developing into a venue in which residents, students and visitors can explore, participate in and learn more about one of the most beguiling of crafts, one that continues to be central to the heritage, culture and economy of the city of York. Now that the future of the building has been secured for public use, a programme of events is bringing people and new life back into the building.

Commenting on the award, Trustee Sarah Brown said: "It is wonderful news that we have received the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund in reviving this wonderful building as a resource for the promotion of one of York’s oldest and most important arts and crafts."

This funding is one of 82 Catalyst heritage: building fundraising capacity small grants totalling over £700,000 being announced by HLF. These grants of between £3,000 and £10,000 are helping all kinds of heritage groups across the UK build financial resilience by increasing their fundraising capacity and encouraging more private giving. This programme forms part of a broader initiative between the Department of Culture Media and Sport (DCMS), Arts Council England and HLF designed to diversify the income streams of arts and heritage organisations.

Notes to editors

The Stained Glass Trust, a charity established in 2009, is based in the historic parish church of St Martin cum Gregory in York, until recently one of the city's most important 'lost' buildings. As the Stained Glass Centre, the building is developing as a national resource for the discovery and interpretation of stained glass. Not only can residents and visitors now enjoy the treasures of this ancient building through a programme of tours, lectures and events, but here they can also participate and learn about craft skills, arts and industries that continue to play a vital role in the life, culture and economy of the city and region.

The centre will also become a venue for exhibition, artists in residence and a growing programme of educational events. The trust is also committed to the regeneration of the Micklegate quarter, one of the city's most historic areas, the traditional gateway to York's only medieval river crossing but better known in recent years for its nightlife. The trust is an active member of the Micklegate Action Group, a city-council supported alliance of residents, businesses and community groups committed to the regeneration of the quarter as a vibrant and diverse residential, cultural and commercial area.

Further information

Sarah Brown, trustee of the Stained Glass Trust on 07798 716 629, email: sarah.brown@york.ac.uk.