Back in 2006 campaigners entered Cushendun Old Church into the BBC’s iconic Restoration series which was presented by Griff Rhys Jones. The beautiful deconsecrated church that was falling into disrepair and is on the Buildings at Risk Register reached the UK final of the BBC2 competition, only to fall at the last hurdle.

But they did not give up.

Monica Morgan, Chair of the Cushendun Building Preservation Trust, said: “We were heartbroken when we failed to win the money to repair the church and turn it into a community centre, but we were determined to keep on trying.”

After a long process the campaigners finally managed to get ownership of the building transferred from the Church of Ireland and then applied again, this time to the HLF to secure the money required.

Today HLF confirmed that the funding application had succeeded.

Paul Mullan, Head of HLF Northern Ireland, said: “Everyone will remember this beautiful building when it featured on Restoration and it was so disappointing when it missed out on winning the funds. I really admire the campaigners for their perseverance and hard work. This will become a wonderful space for residents and tourists alike. Thank you to all the Lottery players who have made this possible.”

Monica concluded: “In the past few years the condition of the building has deteriorated to the point it is in a critical condition so we are thrilled to have secured the funds - restoring the church will make a great difference to the village and create a great facility for all to share.”

Further information

Please contact Nick Garbutt, on tel: 07808 052 416.