ancient chapel's prayers

KNUTSFORD's oldest place of worship is to be revamped with National Lottery cash.

Work costing more than £110,000 has been approved for the Brook Street Unitarian Chapel and its neighbouring schoolrooms.

The Heritage Lottery Fund has awarded a £83,000 grant towards the project, but the church committee has to raise the rest.

"We are delighted," said James Glass, a trustee and member of the committee.

"The chapel is a beautiful building in a lovely setting, but needs attention after suffering the ravages of time."

Disabled toilets, a new heating and rewiring work are included in the refurbishment of the 113-year-old schoolrooms.

The building, which is used by local Scouts and Guides, will also get a new roof and substantial structural repairs.

"This work will improve the schoolrooms' amenities for the benefit of the local community," said Mr Glass.

The 305-year-old chapel's 1885 Brindley and Foster organ will also be restored.

Mr Glass said the committee were now looking at ways of raising funds for the work, expected to be completed by August 2000.

"For a small community it is a big responsibility to keep an ancient building like this in good condition," he said.

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