MANX LOTTERY TRUST FUNDING SUPPORTS REFURBISHMENT OF PARISH CHURCH OF ST MATTHEW THE APOSTLE OF DOUGLAS

The Manx Lottery Trust has awarded funding to the Parish Church of St Matthew the Apostle of Douglas, to support the refurbishment and renovation of the upper hall of the church premises.

The grant of £35,700 was made possible through the Manx Lottery Trust's Dormant Asset Programme, which provides funding of up to £50,000 for charities and not-for-profit organisations.

The walls in the upper hall of the Parish Church of St Matthew have been affected by damp and sulphate staining due to redundant flues and leaks in the roof, resulting from the age of the building. With the support from the Manx Lottery Trust’s funding, these issues have now been rectified and the walls will be lined, lime re-plastered, and redecorated.

The refurbishment work will greatly improve the community space, making it more suitable for various activities and ensuring a warm and welcoming environment for all who use it.

Christine McGrath, Treasurer, of the Parish Church of St Matthew expressed their enthusiasm, saying: "We cannot wait to get the renovation of the upper hall completed. The space is used by people from all walks of life and giving it a revamp will not only prolong its life but also enhance its usage."

Stephen Turner, Chairman for Manx Lottery Trust, added: "As a popular and well used space, we were pleased to support the refurbishment of the Parish Church of St Matthew's upper hall. We hope that this funding will make a positive impact on the community and enable more people to enjoy the space."

For more information on the Manx Lottery Trust and its funding opportunities, please visit their website at www.mlt.org.im.