EFFORTS to repair a church which is at risk of falling into disrepair have been given a boost. 

The Wilton Sunrise Project recently secured initial National Heritage Fund funding for its pre-development phase, a crucial boost in their plans to transform St Peter's Church, Fugglestone, into a multi-use community hub. 

St Peter's has been mostly disused for many years.

The project is a collaboration between the Wilton Community Land Trust (CLT) and Wilton Parochial Church Council (PCC). 

The Wilton Sunrise Project emerged from consultations held in early 2023.

These efforts included two successful open days at St Peter's, which drew more than 50 attendees, and a community survey targeting local residents.

The survey revealed strong support (84.5 per cent) for repurposing the church into a community facility, with suggestions ranging from musical rehearsal space to children's activities and life ceremonies, catering to both faith and non-faith events.

Those behind Wilton Sunrise Project say that St Peter's is at risk of falling into further disrepair due to the lack of regular religious services and basic amenities like heating and lighting.

The project aims to preserve the church's role as a place of worship while "transforming" it into a vital community hub, especially for Wilton Hill, a nearby area with few amenities.

Restoration work is expected to cost between £500k and £750k and the groups would have to raise a sum of cash equal to 10 per cent of whatever is offered by the Lottery Heritage Fund. It has not been disclosed how much funding has been secured. 

The project said: "The building's historical significance, including its connection to George Herbert, the famous poet and notable musician, enhances its potential as a cultural venue for music performances and other events.

"The funding from the National Lottery will help the group explore the next stages of the Wilton Sunrise Project, ensuring that this important part of Wilton’s heritage can continue to serve the community while remaining open for public enjoyment and historical appreciation."

Neil Prigent, chair of Wilton Community Land Trust, added: "Hearing the news of the funding that has now been agreed we can go ahead with our Public Meeting to inform the community of our progress and plans and importantly to further engage so that we can have various working groups focused on specific aspects of the project.

"We look forward to meeting everyone who has an interest in St Peter's Church at our public meeting in the Michael Herbert Hall, Wilton on Saturday, November 2, 10am, for a 10.30am start.