PERTH AND Kinross councillors have backed plans for the refurbishment of the crypt at St Mary’s Monastery with a grant of £5000.

The cash has been pledged to the St Mary’s Restoration Project steering committee who aim to see the crypt become a cultural centre and meeting place.

Perth Common Good Fund has already awarded the project £20,000 towards the cost of a disabled toilet and other facilities.

The project has been the subject of some dedicated fund-raising, with The Friends of St Mary’s Kinnoull pledging to raise £60,000 over five years.

With just one year to go, the group has succeeded in raising £50,000.