Moray Church of Scotland steeple in Keith the centre of public cash appeal after six-figure repair bill
A congregation facing a six-figure bill to save a “deteriorating” church steeple has admitted that the repair bid will be a “major task”.
Members of The Kirk of Keith: St Rufus, Botriphnie and Grange Church have been quoted £135,000 for the “important” works to the tower.
During bad weather, masonry crumbled away from the structure and prompted a professional inspection.
However, a full structural survey revealed that the church would require works with a hefty price tag.
In the face of this task, the congregation launched a fundraising campaign, including a JustGiving page.
Parish minister Rev Wiekus van Straaten said church-goers had already been “very generous”, but more support would be needed to ensure the steeple’s future.
"These efforts will help preserve the structure for future generations and maintain this significant architectural feature that has been part of our skyline for generations,” he said.
"Our congregation is very generous in its support of fundraising, but it will be a major task to raise the £135,000 required.
"By spreading the word, we hope that the wider community, and anyone with connections with the town but living elsewhere, will consider lending their support."
St Rufus Church stands next to the A96 road through Keith and dates back more than 200 years.
Its 118-foot-high steeple can be seen for miles around, making it a key landmark for local residents and those driving through town.
Several years ago, a group of “bold” fundraisers abseiled down the structure to raise cash for charity.
Church treasurer Charlie Cameron said: "We are open to any suggestions for raising the funds and have asked out congregation to get their thinking caps on and either get something going themselves or pass the ideas back to myself.
"Instead of sending Christmas cards, one member is giving a donation to the appeal, and we will have donation plates at some of the church services being held over Christmas.
"Another local resident has initiated a hamper raffle.
"As our minister would say, ‘mony a meikle maks a muckle', and it's a very true saying.
"This will be a huge effort that will take a lot of hard work, but even small donations will help make a dent in the total."
For further information please contact Rev Wiekus van Straaten on wvanstraaten@churchofscotland.org.uk or Charlie Cameron at sessionclerk@kirkofkeith.org.uk
