Glen Affric church taking collections again for new arts and heritage centre
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A FORMER church at the entrance to Glen Affric is again taking collection, just like the old days.
But this time the money is being gathered in the hope that a new and exciting future can be found for Fasnakyle Church as a Highland arts and heritage community venue.
Self employed joiner Stevie Murray (60) who lives with his family in nearby Tomich, was drawn to buy the crumbling Free Church building 12 years ago, and ever since has been toiling to do what he could to save the 162-year-old structure.
But it is cash that is needed now if the work started by Mr Murray is to continue, so an online crowdfunder appeal has been launched.
The appeal states: “The possibilities are many: an exhibition space, wedding venue, education centre, café, drama groups, music makers, writers, painters, sculptors, tinkers, tailors and candlestick makers.
“The limit is not in the size of the building but in the imagination of those who would use it.
“Investment is needed, without it Fasnakyle will remain nothing but an untapped resource.
“It’s within reach, it can happen.
“It needs money, energy, and belief to take it forward.
“It’s a dream, to give something back and shape our own legacy in the Highlands.
“The big oak tree in front of the church was an acorn once, let’s grow some happiness, every contribution will make a difference.”
Mr Murray said: “I don’t really know why I was attracted to the building to the extent of buying it, because I wasn’t really thinking about living in it.
“At that point I knew if something wasn’t done it would be too late.
“Already ‘Dangerous Building’ signs were up, there were holes in the roof and the door was falling off.
“It was falling down and I didn’t want to see that happening, for no particular reason.
“But I can say that the building stands in a beautiful situation and it seems to have an ‘other worldly’ feel to it, an attraction of its own that I feel and other people say they feel and not just because of its previous use.
“This appeal is just to start the ball rolling as it will take a great deal more than £15,000.”
Over the yearsMr Murraye has, mostly on his own, repaired the roof, vestry and much of the rest of the building, and every year visitors turn up to say how much they love the building and its location.
There is a groundswell of support and the fund has already reached more than £700.
For further details and to donate to the appeal see www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/fasnakyle-church-restoration
