A GRADE II-listed “at risk” church built during the reign of Henry III has received a funding boost from the National Churches Trust.

At Wilfrid’s Parish Church in South Kilvington, near Thirsk is one of 29 UK churches which will share in a £390,000 grant from the organisation.

The church was built in approximately 1270 and there are indications an older place of worship may have stood on the site, as the remains of a Saxon cross remains in the churchyard.

It has been awarded £10,000 from the National Churches Trust repair grant to help fund urgent repairs. The work includes stabilising the east wall, which is moving out from the top, repairing the sanctuary roof and floor from water damage and replacing damaged roof tiles and rainwater fittings.

Last year it received £26,800 from the Heritage Lottery Fund to carry out essential conservation work to the 13th century church.

In better condition and with better facilities more activity can take place in the 13th century church. The school can use it more for their history/creative writing classes and the wider community will be able to hold clubs and other meetings as appropriate.

Broadcaster and journalist Huw Edwards, vice-president of the National Churches Trust said: “This funding will help ensure that this beautiful Yorkshire church continues to serve local people for many years to come.”

“At the heart of the nation’s history and at the centre of local communities, churches and chapels are some of the UK's best loved local buildings. But their future is not guaranteed.”

He added: “Everyone can make a contribution to the future of the UK's church and chapel buildings. That could be by helping to clear drains and gutters to help keep churches watertight, volunteering to help out as a guide to show people the history and architecture of places of worship or keeping an eye out for vandals or thieves. “

“Churches and chapels may be historic buildings, but they can be part of our future, too.”

Also to receive funding was All Saints Church at Newton-on-Ouse, another Grade II-listed building on Historic England’s at Risk Register.

It has received £10,000 to re-roof the nave and south aisle with new stone slates, replacing rotten timbers. Once the repairs are completed, the church aims to encourage more people to use it, whether for concerts, exploring their history, or appreciating the craftsmanship.

The church has been in Newton since Saxon times. The current building dates from 1849 but the tower is approximately 900 years old.