A Perth cathedral has been given almost a quarter of a million pounds in funding.
St Ninian’s on Perth’s North Methven Street is among eight ecclesiastical buildings given the cash by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Historic Environment Scotland (HES).
The £241,600 award will allow urgent and essential repairs to be carried out.
St Ninian’s was joined by Shettleston New Church of Scotland, Glasgow, St Michael’s Kirk, Inveresk, Paisley Central Methodist Hall, St Mungo’s Parish Church, Alloa, St Anne’s Episcopal Church, Dunbar, and St Mary’s Parish Church, Kirkintilloch, in taking a slice of a £1.55 million Christmas fund.
The money will ensure that the buildings are once again wind and watertight.
The funding will also be used to explore the history of many of the churches, which will be shared with the community and visitors through events, publications and digital media.
Lucy Casot, head of the Heritage Lottery Fund, said: “Scotland’s amazing array of churches provide a focus for many community activities particularly at this time of year.
“HLF is delighted that, working in partnership with the Historic Environment Scotland, we are able to help these congregations secure the future of their buildings.
“Not only will they be wind and water- tight but activities and events will reach out to new generations encouraging many more through their doors.”
Frazer Gibson, project officer for Historic Environment Scotland, added: “Throughout the centuries, Scottish society has been intrinsically linked with religion, with the local place of worship often forming the focal point of communities.
“As a result, a great deal of resource has been expended throughout those years to create some of the country’s most important and carefully constructed buildings.
“Nowadays many continue to serve as a hub for the communities they serve, but they can also be appreciated for their aesthetic value and historical importance.
“Places of worship are undoubtedly a vital part of Scotland’s built heritage, and we are very happy to be able to contribute towards their repair and restoration, along with our partners in the Heritage Lottery Fund.”
St Ninians was consecrated in 1850. It was the fist cathedral to be built in Scotland since the Scottish Reformation.