ONE of the region’s most iconic churches has essential funding support for crucial roof repairs.

St Cuthbert’s Church, in Darlington, has been described by English Heritage as one of the most important examples of early English Gothic architecture in northern England.

It has received initial support from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for a project to repair damage to the lead roof coverings and high level stonework.

The announcement comes weeks after fears were for the church’s long-term future.

Speaking last month, treasurer Brian Johnson highlighted the two major tasks faced by those charged with running and maintaining the 900-year-old building.

He said: “The heating system is totally inefficient and must be replaced. On top of that, there is a need for major repairs to the roof.”

To that end, HLF has awarded development funding of £26,500 to help progress the Church’s plans for a full grant at a later date.

It is estimated that the whole project will cost £150,000, with the HLF providing £106,000.

Ivor Crowther, head of the HLF in the North-East, said: “Places of worship are among the UK’s most historic buildings, with fascinating stories behind them.

“This will enable urgent repairs to get underway.”

The funding will allow the church authorities to renew lead coverings that have been in place since the 1950s – these have started to split and allow water to enter the building.

This has damaged ancient roof timbers that date back to the 13th Century – believed to be the oldest in the area.

Paul Gilmore, speaking on behalf of the church’s building group, said: “We have ambitions for the future of St Cuthbert’s as a centre for heritage and the arts, whilst continuing in its key role as Darlington town centre’s oldest church.

“We are delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund has awarded us this money to help us undertake these vital repairs.”

In addition to the roofing project, £10,000 has also been allocated towards the replacement of the church’s heating system, although church members will still need to find the money to fund installation.

The church anticipates a great deal of interest in the work.

It is planned to host exhibitions and practical demonstrations of the skills involved while the work is ongoing.

It is not expected that the work will disrupt services and events to any great extent.