Day of Giving fundraiser

A HISTORIC building at the centre of Forres needs nearly £30,000 to fix holes in its roof.

The B-listed, Gothic St Leonard's Church, formerly Forres High United Free Church, has stood at 43 High Street since 1903 and is still at the heart of the local community but it is badly in need of repair.

Session clerk Roy Anderson explained: "The church is busier than it has ever been with lots of exciting new plans in the pipeline. However, maintaining the fabric of this large building is a constant and costly challenge. At present we are having to find in excess of £28,000 to carry out urgent repairs to the roof to prevent further damage. We have constant leaks from various parts of the roof whenever there's heavy rain. One wall of the church, in particular, has been badly affected and carpetting has also had to be renewed. If not treated urgently these leaks are only going to get worse."

He added: "The Church of Scotland General Trustees have already provided us with a grant. We are also awaiting responses from other funders including the Baird Trust, the Budge Trust and the Ferguson Bequest. However, there is no guarantee the applications will be successful, nor indeed sufficient to match the sums involved."

An increasing number of events including concerts are now being held at St Leonard's Church, which has an attached hall and kitchen extension. Around 18 groups/organisations use the facilities every week - a number that has has grown significantly over the last few years. The church transepts have been opened up by removing pews to create open spaces for small chapel, prayer space, as a children's area and more. There are also plans to start a new praise group and a Mission and Outreach Committee is to launch community initiatives.

"Many local folk have made use of St Leonard's Church services and benefited from its presence over the years," said Mr Anderson. "Not just those who come faithfully to church each Sunday, but also the wider community which is making ever increasing use of its excellent facilities.

"The community would be so much the poorer if the church had to close its doors."

St Leonard's Church is hosting a Day of Giving, for the general community as well as members, from 10am-noon and 2-4pm on Saturday, November 23. Tea, coffee and homebakes will be served and there will be a display showcasing activities in the church throughout the week, as well as stands manned by local organisations.

"Attendees be able to view some of the changes being made to the inside," added Mr Anderson. "For those unable to come along, donations can still be made in envelopes marked St Leonard’s Roof Appeal and posted through the letterbox at the side entrance.

"St Leonard’s has a special place in the heart of many Forresians – please help us to meet our appeal target to ensure this vital work is carried out before the onset winter."