A charity has been set up to preserve an 18th century church with a fascinating architectural history.
The beautiful Saint Conan’s Kirk at Loch Awe in Argyll clings to the steep hillside and displays various different styles of architecture.
It is currently in need of £1million of repairs and now the Friends of Saint Conan’s Kirk has been formed to preserve its heritage.
Secretary Claire Kinloch said: “Externally some stone work needs to be done, and part of the roof needs repairing. A lot of old records and archives still held in the kirk need some heritage professionals to come and look at them.”
The Church of Scotland kirk was built by Walter Douglas Campbell in 1886.
Mr Campbell owned the island of Innischonam in the loch. The journey to church in the nearest village of Dalmally was too much for his elderly mother, so he built her the kirk.
A man of many talents, he was a most capable if somewhat unorthodox architect, a collector of objets d’art and a skilled woodcarver.
The Friends of Saint Conan’s also want to raise awareness of its heritage and make it a focal point for the local community.
Ian Craig, chairman of the Friends of Saint Conan’s Kirk, formed this year, said: “We are astounded by the commitment already received from all members of the committee and delighted to have been able to set up this dedicated group of individuals who will no doubt go to great lengths to help build the profile of Saint Conan’s Kirk across local, regional, national and international audiences.
“Having achieved charitable status we can now really capitalise on the hard work to date and make a real difference to the future of this amazing building”.
The public is being invited to an open weekend at Saint Conan’s Kirk on August 16 and 17.
During the weekend visitors can see live theatre with the Three Wee Crows, get a guided tour around the kirk, see an exhibition from local artists, view the entries from the local school’s art competition and take part in children’s games that will help them discover the secret’s behind Saint Conan’s Kirk.
The new Gatehouse Tearoom will also be open all weekend for home baking and hot and cold drinks.